Melochia melissifolia

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Botanical Description: Melochia melissifolia is a perennial shrub that typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 meters (3 to 6 feet). It has a somewhat bushy appearance with multiple branching stems that emerge from the base. The leaves of Melochia melissifolia are simple, opposite, and ovate to lanceolate in shape. They typically measure about 5-10 cm in length. The leaf edges are serrated, and the surface is usually hairy. The leaves are green with a slightly rough texture due to the presence of fine hairs. Melochia melissifolia produces small, clustered flowers that are generally pink to light purple in color. The flowers are typical of the Malvaceae family, with five petals that are fused at the base, creating a tubular structure. The flowers are usually less than 1 cm in diameter and grow in dense clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit of Melochia melissifolia is a small capsule that contains multiple tiny seeds. The capsules are dry at maturity and open to release the seeds, which are dispersed by wind or by coming into contact with animals.
Flowering/Fruiting: Flowers from May to September.
Plant Uses: Ecological Uses (Erosion Control & Wildlife Habitat) and Traditional Medicinal Uses
Origin: Introduced
Locality: University of Port Harcourt Botanical Garden Abuja Campus.
Habit: Shrub
Mode: Wild