Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Rutaceae

Genus:

Melicope

Species:

Melicope clusiifolia

USDA Symbol:

MECL

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

800 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

mar,apr,may,jun

Bloom Colors:

greenish-white

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★★★★★ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, insects

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained volcanic soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to Hawaiian forests; prefers volcanic substrates