The Encyclopedia of House Plants

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Medinilla

Family: Melastomataceae.

This plant is available in our partner's store!

Medinilla magnifica Lindl. Common name(s): Rose Grape
Medinilla 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.
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.

Users' comments:

Charles
USA
25th Oct 2005 		I saw this plant yesterday at Home Depot. They had it out with their fall offerings WITHOUT a notice that it is an INDOOR plant only in our area. The tag did not address "hardiness"
I resent Home Depot and Lowes doing this. They have repeatedly offered Red Fountain Grass as "hardy" to NoCar. I found from bad experience--and checking more books and websites that it definitely IS NOT.
rumiana
bulgaria
23rd Jan 2008 		im buying for second time medinilla, but after blossoming the leaves are falling down.should i throw the flower or it is still alive?
sherry
us - florida
8th Dec 2009 		I recently purchased one at lowes in Florida. The information tag did indicate cold hardiness above 62F degrees.
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