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MedinillaFamily: Melastomataceae.
| Medinilla magnifica Lindl. |
Common name(s): Rose Grape |
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Genus of about 150 species of evergreen shrubs and scandent climbers, some epiphytic, from rainforest in tropical Africa, S.E.Asia, and the Pacific.
Medinilla magnifica is the only species grown as a houseplant. This erect shrub to 6 ft (1.8 m) tall is usually found as an epiphyte in its Philippine homeland. Its stems may be ribbed or even winged and its rich glossy green leaves grow to about 12in (30cm) long and have obvious paler veins. Its small pink flowers are produced throughout spring and summer in long pendulous panicles to 18 in (45 cm); these are made even more obvious because of the large pink bracts attached to the flower clusters. |
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| Growing conditions |
Watering and misting |
Propagation |
| Plant in rich, moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil in part-shade. Medinilla will not tolerate winter minimums below 64°F (18°C). Keep away from direct sun. |
Water and feed well in the growing season. Water sparingly in winter. Mist leaves frequently, or stand pot on a pebble tray. Do not allow soil to dry out. |
Take stem cuttings in spring. Use a rooting hormone and provide bottom heat. Sow seed. |
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