Bertolonia is a genus of approximately 14 species of dwarf, creeping, tender herbaceous perennials in the family Melastomataceae (order Myrtales), native to tropical South America. The genus is prized primarily for its striking, velvety ornamental foliage rather than its flowers. Leaf coloration varies considerably among species, ranging from shimmery silver-white with purple tones, to pink suffused with purple, to bronze-green with carmine veining and contrasting lighter midribs; the undersides of the leaves are typically purple. Leaves are coarsely hairy and oval, reaching around 7 cm in length on short stalks. The plants bear clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers held just above the leaf surface, appearing repeatedly through the growing season in shades of pink, red, yellow, and purple. GBIF records 32 descendant taxa within the genus.
Distribution
Bertolonia species are native to tropical South America. The genus occurs in humid, shaded forest habitats across this region.
Cultivation
Bertolonia species are cultivated as ornamental houseplants and greenhouse specimens, valued for their velvety, colorfully patterned foliage. As tender perennials native to tropical South America, they require warm, humid conditions and protection from frost.
