Medinilla magnifica
Medinilla magnifica
Rose Grape
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Taxonomy
Family Melastomataceae · Genus Medinilla
Description
Medinilla magnifica, the dazzling Philippine native, flaunts pendant clusters of rosy-pink bracts and berries over glossy leaves. It’s a tropical diva that rewards bright, gentle light, steady warmth, and high humidity with spectacular blooms—perfect as a statement houseplant or conservatory star.
Common Names
Rose GrapeShowy MedinillaMalaysian OrchidPink LanternPhilippine Orchid
Context
nativeRegion
Philippines (notably Luzon) tropical montane forests, often as an epiphyte.
usdaZones
10–11
companionPlants
Anthurium, Calathea, Orchids (Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium), Ferns (Bird’s Nest, Maidenhair), Begonia (cane and rhizomatous)
culturalUses
Highly prized ornamental for conservatories, atriums, and tropical gardens; used as a floral focal point and for display collections of Philippine flora.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light with a few hours of gentle morning sun; protect from harsh midday rays.
WateringKeep evenly moist in active growth; let the top 1–2 cm of mix dry between waterings. Reduce slightly in winter. Use tepid, low-mineral water.
SoilAiry, well-draining, slightly acidic mix—e.g., 1/3 fine orchid bark, 1/3 peat or coco coir, 1/3 perlite/pumice.
FertilizerFeed every 2–3 weeks in spring–summer with a balanced, diluted fertilizer; switch to a bloom booster as buds form. Pause in winter.
HumidityHigh humidity (60–80%) with good airflow. Avoid wetting flowers; use a humidifier or pebble tray.
TemperatureWarm and stable: 65–80°F (18–27°C) by day; avoid below 55°F (13°C) and cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, semi-woody epiphytic shrub with large, leathery leaves and pendulous flower panicles.
Mature SizeIndoors 3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m); in ideal greenhouse conditions up to 6 ft (1.8 m) tall and 3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m) wide.
Growth RateModerate under warm, bright, humid conditions.
BloomingLate spring to summer; cascading panicles with pink bracts and clusters of flowers, followed by ornamental berries.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter rest with cooler temps and reduced watering.
Propagation
MethodsSemi-hardwood stem cuttings, Air layering, Seed (slow, uncommon)
DifficultyModerate to challenging
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningAfter flowering, remove spent panicles and lightly shape. Trim leggy growth to encourage branching.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years in spring, just one pot size up; prefers a snug pot and excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, scale, and spider mites; root rot if overwatered; botrytis on wet blooms; leaf chlorosis from hard water or high pH.
ToxicityGenerally regarded as non-toxic to humans and pets, though data are limited—avoid ingestion.
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