Hortiforum

General Info – Blue Tongue, Native Lasiandra

Though it may not be commonly grown for its edible fruit, Blue Tongue produces highly edible, tasty berries. These berries contain a sweet blue to black flesh with a mild berry or Fig-like flavour. As suggested by its common name, the fruit will stain the tongue a bluish-black colour. The species name Melastoma is derived from the Greek words mela, meaning black, and stoma, meaning mouth. Together they translate to “black mouth”, referring to the staining effect caused by the blue to black fruits found throughout the Melastoma genus. Most commonly, the fruit is eaten fresh as a snacking fruit, though it is also used to make Grass Jelly in Indonesia.
Reflective of its adaptability to a wide range of conditions, Blue Tongue is native throughout South Asia, South East Asia and much of Australia, extending as far south as northern New South Wales. It is generally reported as having little to no frost tolerance, as would be expected throughout most of its native range. However, some sources note a degree of frost tolerance, which seems plausible given that its distribution extends into borderline subtropical climates. It also appears to possess some drought tolerance, though it benefits greatly from supplementary watering during dry periods, particularly while young. Protection from scorching sun and hot, drying winds is ideal. Blue Tongue can be grown in most soils with reasonable drainage and is also well suited to large pots. Once established, it is very hardy and fast growing, though it rarely exceeds 1.5 to 2m in height and can be pruned regularly to maintain a desired shape or size.
Blue Tongue is best known, and most commonly grown, for its eye-catching flowers, which range from pink to mauve and white. These large blooms are produced over much of the year and attract a wide variety of pollinators. Its attractive red stems contrast beautifully against the lush, evergreen foliage, which is characterised by its distinctive veining. Also known as Native Lasiandra, Blue Tongue is an excellent alternative to many exotic members of the Melastomataceae family, including Lasiandra (Pleroma urvilleanum) and various Tibouchinas. A highly versatile garden plant, it can be used for screening, hedging or as a filler plant. Its compact size and hardy nature make it a low-maintenance addition to the garden once established.

Plant Profile/Properties