Ardisia elliptica is native to Southeast Asia but the plant has become naturalized in moist tropical regions like Hawaii and the southern part of Florida. Shoebutton Ardisia is a tropical, evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach heights of 20 feet. The plant has alternate leathery leaves, with new leaves that are pink to reddish in color that turn dark green with age. Shoebutton Ardisia blooms year round but the peak blooming period is during the summer months. The small star shaped pink flowers hang in clusters from the leaf axils and are followed by round button shaped drupes/fruits. The berries/fruits are consumed by birds and other animals and their dispersement causes rapid spread of this plant. The common name of "Shoebutton" comes from the little button shaped fruit, while the common name "Ink Berry" is due to the berries having a juice that stains like ink.

1 reply