Spanish Shawl

Dissotis rotundifolia (Sm.) Triana

dis-OH-tis row-tund-ah-FOAL-ee-ah

Melastomataceae

Explanation of name: Generic name from Greek dissos, for two-folded, in reference to two types of anthers (http://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/dissotprin.htm).  Rotundifolia means round-leaved.

Natural range: Africa

Recognition:  Ground-cover with opposite leaves and purple flowers having bright yellow anthers

Landscape uses:  Ground-cover where moisture is adequate.  Roots at the nodes