Cyanophyllum
(from kyanos, blue, and phyllon, a leaf; referring to the under surface of the leaves). ORD. Melastomaceae. Stove evergreens, with very beautiful foliage. The species thrive in a compost of good fibrous peat and leaf mould, in equal parts, with one-fourth of silver sand added. In potting, care should be taken that the drainage is perfect, as water must be given freely during summer, both to the roots and foliage; and a thoroughly moist atmosphere must be maintained, to prevent the leaves becoming deformed while they are immature. Propagation is effected by inserting cuttings and eyes in sand, where a good bottom heat can be maintained, and shade from the sun secured; they may also be readily increased by seeds, when these are procurable.
C. magnificum (magnificent).* fl. small, insignificant, disposed in a large branching panicle. l. broadly-ovate, tapering to a point, opposite, 1ft. to 2 1/2ft. long, 9in. to 12in. wide; upper surface of a beautiful velvety-green, midrib and primary veins ivory-white; under side reddish-purple; veins very prominent. Mexico, 1858. This is one of the most beautiful foliage plants in cultivation, and fully bears out its specific designation. (R. H. 1859, 359.) C. spectandum (showy). l. large, oval, 10in. to 20in. long, 4in. to 7in. broad at the widest part; upper surface rich dark velvety-green, midrib margined with metallic grey; under side pale green, tinged with red, rib prominent. Brazil, 1866. Very handsome and distinct.
Other plants rightly or wrongly referred here in catalogues are: assamicum, Bowmani, and speciosum; they are, however, not worth cultivating where those described above are grown.