About Medinilla magnifica Lindl.
Growth Height
Medinilla magnifica Lindl. grows up to 3 meters tall.
Leaf Characteristics
It produces opposite, firm, leathery ovate leaves that end in a short point, reaching 20 to 30 centimeters in length.
Inflorescence Structure
Its flowers form in panicles up to 50 centimeters long, with pink ovoid bracts.
Flower Appearance
Individual flowers are up to 25 millimeters across, and range in color from pink and red to violet.
Fruit Characteristics
The fruits are violet, fleshy berries approximately 1 centimeter wide.
Native Habitat
In the Philippines, this species grows in the forks of large trees.
Growth Habit
It is an epiphyte: a plant that grows on other trees, but does not draw nutrients from its host the way parasites do.
Germination Process
When a fertilized seed of this plant is deposited or lands in accumulated leaf debris, moss and other plant detritus in the crook of a larger tree or plant, it sprouts, roots and anchors itself, getting all its nutrition from the decaying detritus around its base.
Cultivation in Tropical Regions
In tropical regions, Medinilla magnifica is grown as a perennial.
Cultivation in Cool Climates
It is also a common houseplant in cooler climates.
Cultural Significance
King Baudouin of Belgium was an enthusiastic admirer of this plant; he grew it in the royal conservatories, and it was depicted on the 10,000 Belgian franc bank note.
Temperature Requirements
In temperate zones, this plant must be grown as an indoor houseplant or kept under year-round protection, as it cannot survive temperatures below 15 °C (59 °F).
Outdoor Cultivation Zones
It can be kept outdoors year-round in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12, but it requires protection from excessive hot sun, wind and cold.
Light and Humidity Preferences
This plant needs high humidity, and prefers bright indirect light, with shade and protection from direct sun especially during the hottest part of the day.
Horticultural Award
It has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
