Medinilla speciosa (Reinw. ex Blume) Blume

Growth Form

Medinilla speciosa (Reinw. ex Blume) Blume is an evergreen shrub that reaches an average height of 45–60 centimetres (18–24 in).

Stem and Leaf Characteristics

It has woody branched stems and opposite leathery green leaves that can grow up to 20 centimetres (7.9 in) long and 15 centimetres (5.9 in) wide, with prominent visible veins.

Flower Characteristics

Its small, delicate bright pink flowers grow in large panicles on hanging reddish stems.

Flowering Period

The flowering period runs from early summer to fall.

Fruit Development Timeline

After blooming finishes, a hanging raceme of eye-catching berries remains on the plant for approximately one month, before the plant blooms again.

Fruit Characteristics

These rounded berries start out pink and turn purple-blue when ripe, which gives the species its common common name Showy Asian Grapes.

General Medicinal Uses

This plant is used in traditional medicine; it may be boiled, brewed, or consumed directly.

Specific Medicinal Applications

Its fruits are eaten by pregnant women as a health supplement, and the plant is also used to treat diarrhea and mouth sores, as well as being used as an anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antibacterial treatment.

Core Native Range

This species occurs naturally in Borneo, Java, and the Philippines.

Borneo Distribution

In Borneo, it can be found at Kinabalu in the Malaysian portion of the island.

Broader Distribution Range

Its full broader distribution also includes peninsular Malaysia (Penang, Perak, Pahang, Selangor), Sumatra, the Lesser Sunda Islands (Sumbawa, Lombok), Sulawesi, and the Moluccas.

Habitat Preferences

It is typically found in mountain forests, where it prefers shaded areas and moist soils.

Elevation Range

It grows at elevations between 300 metres (980 ft) and 750 metres (2,460 ft) above sea level.