Melastomataceae
The Melastomataceae is a family about 200 genera and 4000 species of of dicotyledenous flowering herbs, shrubs and trees. Some species grow as epiphytes. Leaves are alternate and prominently veined in a palmate fashion, diverging from the leaf base and converging at its tip. Flowers are white or pink and may be single or clustered in a large cyme or panicle. The bisexual flowers have 4 - 5 sepals, that may be fused into a calyptra, and 4 - 5 petals. Stamens may be claw-like. Fruits are capsules or berries.
Somewhat succulent species are fond in the genus Medinilla, although most are woody shrubs or vines.
Cultivation of these tropical plants requires warmth. Several species of Melastomataceae have become invasive when naturalised outside their natural range e.g. Korster's curse Clidemia hirta.
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Plant Families with Succulent Species