Medinilla

Class

Dicotyledoneae

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Melastomataceae

Order

Myrtales

Genus

Medinilla

Species

magnificent

Description

Known as the ‘Philippine orchid’, it is an evergreen epiphytic shrub of tropical origin with large, leathery, glossy leaves. It produces dense, pendulous terminal racemes ranging in colour from pale pink to coral pink, bearing striking pink basal bracts; the individual flowers within the inflorescence open in succession and remain on the plant for a long time.
Used mainly as a houseplant, it can be moved outdoors when average temperatures reach 25°C, provided it is given plenty of filtered, diffused light and is protected from sudden temperature changes.

Curiosities and special features

The botanical genus name Medinilla was given in honour of the 19th-century Spanish governor of the Mariana Islands, Don José de Medinilla y Pifieda, whilst the specific epithet magnifica means ‘glorious’ or ‘splendid’, referring to the plant’s ornamental value with its elegant inflorescences.

It is also commonly known as ‘Pink Grape’ because of its terminal inflorescences, which resemble bunches of grapes, although they are not edible.

Origin and distribution

A species native to the tropical rainforest biome of the Philippines (Luzon).

Leaf

The leaves, which are evergreen and leathery, have a broad , oblong-obovate blade.

Leaf colour

Uniform colour, a glossy dark green on the upper surface with distinct veins.

Plant height

The plant’s height ranges from 0.8 to 1.2 metres.

In its native range, it can reach a height of 2.00 metres.

Lifespan

Polyennial evergreen shrub.

Where to plant

Recommended as a pot plant for indoor spaces, given its climate requirements.

Stem

A shrub with a semi-woody stem; the plant has no thorns.

Flower

The flower is double and of medium size. The petals are a single colour with a gradient effect. It forms large raceme or cluster-like inflorescences. It flowers from late spring to early autumn, with a flowering period of between 60 and 90 days.

Growth

The plant has a compact growth habit, characterised by large, leathery leaves and sinuous stems bearing terminal racemose inflorescences.

Plant habit

It develops an upright habit, softened by its arching flower stems.

Branching

Medium branching.

PH

It requires a slightly acidic soil pH, with optimal values ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.

Sun exposure

It requires a position in bright shade.

Ensure the plant receives plenty of diffused or filtered light, which is necessary for full flowering, whilst protecting it from direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.

During the warmer months, it can be placed outdoors when the average temperature is 25 °C, whilst always ensuring it receives filtered sunlight or light shade.

Ideal climate and temperature

The species’ natural habitat is the tropical rainforest biome; it therefore requires a warm climate with high humidity.

The ideal temperature ranges from 22 to 25 °C during the growing season.

The vital temperature range is between 15 and 38 °C.

Use

The uniqueness and elegance of its terminal inflorescences, as well as the majesty of its evergreen foliage, make the Medinilla magnifica highly prized in
ornamental use

Given the prevailing climatic conditions, it is mainly grown as a houseplant.

Hardiness

Under the right growing conditions, it is a plant of moderate hardiness.

Soil

Use a light-textured growing medium that ensures excellent drainage of excess water and good aeration. You can also use a specialised orchid compost.

Difficulty

It can be moderately difficult to grow, but if you ensure the right growing conditions, it will thrive and flower profusely.

Growing tips

Some specific cultivation guidelines:
Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day Prefers water with low calcium content Prefers a warm, humid climate In low light, the plants will not flower

Medinilla requires a short period of winter dormancy at around 18°C, with reduced watering to encourage subsequent flowering.

Propagation

Vegetative propagation is mainly carried out by taking cuttings.

Repotting

You can repot it every two or three years in early spring, using a slightly larger pot with drainage holes in the base.

Watering

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, allowing any excess water to drain out of the pot; during the colder months, water less frequently.

It may be helpful to fill the saucer with expanded clay or gravel and keep it moist; furthermore, if the air is very dry, you can lightly mist the plant with demineralised water, taking care not to wet the flowers directly.

Do not use cold, hard water.
Incorrect watering can lead to yellowing and wilting of the leaves; waterlogging causes root rot.
Low ambient humidity causes brown spots on the tips and edges of the leaves, and the premature dropping of flowers before they open.

Fertilising

During spring and summer, fertilise monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser (NPK 10-10-10), diluted in the watering can without exceeding the recommended dose; in autumn, reduce the frequency to once every 6–8 weeks, whilst in winter, do not fertilise. To encourage flowering, you can alternate, during the pre-flowering period, with a specific fertiliser for flowering plants that has a higher phosphorus and potassium content.

Edibility for humans

Non-edible

Tip

Protect the plant from draughts and sudden changes in temperature. Do not expose it to direct sunlight, but ensure it receives plenty of filtered light. During spring and summer, water regularly, keeping the compost moist but not waterlogged; in autumn and winter, water less frequently; do not use cold or hard water. It requires a warm but also humid climate; indoors in winter, place it away from heat sources such as radiators or stoves. It may be helpful to fill the saucer with expanded clay or gravel and keep it moist; furthermore, if the air is very dry, you can lightly mist the plant with demineralised water, taking care not to wet the flowers directly. Keep the growing medium moist but not waterlogged: incorrect watering can lead to yellowing and wilting of the leaves.