Miconia calvescens

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-017158",
  "term": "Miconia calvescens",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "Velvet tree is an evergreen tree that grows to about 50 feet in height when mature. Its large (up to 3 feet long), attractive leaves are dark green above and purple underneath, with three distinct veins that run roughly parallel from the base to the tip of the leaf. Flowering and fruiting begin after four to five years, when trees are about 12 feet tall, and can reoccur several times per year. Flowers are numerous, sweet-scented, white to pink in color, and very short-lived (12-24 hours after opening). The dark purple fruits are about one-half inch in diameter, sweet-tasting, and very attractive to birds.",
  "references": [
    "National Park Service Plant Conservation Alliance at http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/mica1.htm"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/miconia-calvescens/"
}