Status:
valid
Authors:
Willd.
Source:
tro
Year:
1799
Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl., ed. 4 , 2: 329 (1799)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001135048
Common Names
- Molinaea alternifolia
- Alternifolia Molinaea
- Alternate-Leaf Molinaea
Description
Molinaea alternifolia (also called Molinaea alternifolia, among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the family Melastomataceae. It is a shrub or small tree up to 10 m tall, with a trunk up to 20 cm in diameter. It is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, where it is found in lowland and montane forests, often in disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Molinaea alternifolia is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used for its medicinal properties, such as treating fever, headache, and skin diseases.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Molinaea alternifolia is white in color and has a bell-shaped structure. The seed is small and round, with a black and white mottled pattern. The seedlings are small and have a single pair of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Molinaea alternifolia is an evergreen shrub that can reach up to 4 m in height. It prefers moist, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or summer in a well-drained seedling mix. Cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and should be semi-hardwood cuttings of about 10 cm in length.
Where to Find Molinaea alternifolia
Molinaea alternifolia is native to Madagascar.
Species in the Molinaea genus
Species in the Sapindaceae family