Melochia

Deceased

Scientific name: Melochia nodiflora

POWO Status: Subshrub or Shrub

IUCN Red List threat level: Not Evaluated

GPS Location: 17° 42′ ″ N, 64° 49′ ″ W

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Melochia nodiflora

Common Name: Nodding Melochia, Swordbush
Scientific Name: Melochia nodiflora Sw.
Family: Malvaceae (formerly Sterculiaceae)

Leaf Phenology

  • Leaf Type: Simple, alternate, oblong to lanceolate with serrated margins; velvety texture on both sides
  • Deciduous Status: Semi-deciduous to evergreen, depending on moisture availability
  • Leaf Flush: New leaves emerge after rains or active growth periods; regrowth is rapid after cutting or grazing
  • Senescence: Leaf drop may occur during extended drought or stress, often preceded by yellowing

Flowering

  • Inflorescence: Small, purplish to pink 5-petaled flowers, borne in clusters (cymes) from leaf axils or stem nodes
  • Blooming Period: Most of the year in tropical climates, especially after rains
  • Pollinators: Small bees and butterflies
  • Phenological Indicator: Clusters of small purple flowers at stem nodes or branch ends; flowering often increases after disturbance

Fruiting

  • Fruit Type: Small capsule with several seeds; turns from green to brown when mature
  • Fruit Development: Appears soon after flowering; matures quickly
  • Dispersal: Likely wind or gravity, possibly animal-assisted
  • Phenological Indicator: Dry, rounded seed capsules visible among faded flowers or at leaf axils

Suggested Photo Angles

  • Full plant habit (low shrub or sprawling subshrub)
  • Close-up of serrated leaves with fine hairs
  • Flower clusters at leaf nodes
  • Developing and mature seed capsules
  • Leaf flush or drought-related yellowing

Notes for Monitoring

Best phenological markers: flower clusters at nodes, and dried seed capsules following bloom

Melochia nodiflora is a pioneer species, often found in disturbed, dry areas, roadsides, and open fields

It is important for erosion control and pollinator support, especially in dry tropical ecosystems

Flowering is often triggered by rainfall or regrowth after cutting, making it responsive and photogenically active for much of the year

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