Medinilla (magnifica) – common name rose grape Melastomataceae; The Tibouchina family
This is a large genus of over 150 species of herbaceous shrubs, some of which are vine like and epiphylic. They are naturally occuring from tropical Africa to southern Asia to the South Pacific.
Medinilla magnifica is native to the Philippines, growing both terrestrially and as an epiphyte in tropical rainforests. Plants grow to 2.5m in height with succulent four angled stems.
The large foot-long lanceolate leaves have a distinct midrib. It blooms on and off throughout the year having pendant inflorescences that have pink leaf-like bracts with small coral red flowers.
A very unusual and attractive plant, the Medinilla grows well in high humidity and in partial shade, and is ideal in tropical to subtropical Queensland.
An ideal environment is good drainage with plenty of moisture in a rich compost. Avoid areas that are subject to frost. It can be grown in containers in a compost-rich medium.
Loors Landscaping
Garden Design, Construction and Consultancy
Phone: 5445 7615 Mobile: 0412 680 801
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