Sonerila dongii (ex "sp. Vietnam")

Sonerila dongii is a species of Melastomataceae (black mouth plant) newly described in 2024 from Lâm Đồng Province in southern Vietnam.

It only grows to about 20 cm tall and branches profusely. The leaves are strikingly patterned, especially in low light. Unlike other tropical Sonerila species , the leaves of Sonerila dongii are not paper-thin but slightly thickened, almost "crisp." This makes it less sensitive to low humidity and drying out than other members of the genus. In our experience, it can tolerate periods of less than 50% humidity and does not require a super-humid location. The stems are also noticeably thickened and "fleshy." This is likely an adaptation to survive the dry season. Other Sonerila species from the region often have underground tubers or rhizomes for this purpose. Sonerila dongii is the only Sonerila that appears to survive the dry season above ground.

We can't say for sure whether it's suitable as a houseplant in a shady location, but it would be quite possible if it's protected from dry air (especially in winter). The cuttings we offer here should definitely be kept in a terrarium, as they are still quite young and don't have a very large root system.

It blooms very profusely with surprisingly large, pink flowers with three petals.



You will receive a young plant in a 6 cm pot.