Medinilla magnifica, the Philippine orchid!

Medinilla magnifica is a truly particular plant.

We often tend to say that a plant is particular, but on the other hand it is normal since it is such a varied world, just look at it with a moment’s attention and it becomes really difficult not to be amazed at the wonders it can create.

In the case of the Medinilla magnifica what immediately strikes the eye is its figure: large elegant and straight leaves from which pink stems emerge from which at the apex there are showy flowers of the same color. Explaining it in words probably doesn’t make sense, but looking at it you get the impression of looking at something which, as the name suggests, is truly magnificent. It does not have a jaunty appearance like the pilea, or the exotic charm of the banana tree or the colors of the Calicanto sun. No, it has a different beauty, more melancholic and delicate. As if to recall the branches of the weeping willow caressing a body of water, the magnificence of the Medinilla is channeled entirely in an almost refined and respectful bearing, as if we had caught it in the middle of a bow. One of those a bit like movies from times gone by, where the princess raises the corners of her fluffy skirt while slightly bowing to her prince and then starting to dance in a large hall.

There’s nothing left to say other than: one two three, let the dancing begin!

MEDINILLA MAGNIFICA

Medinilla magnifica is native to the Philippine Islands. It is easy to find it in rainy forests in tropical areas of Africa, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.

It is a genus composed of approximately 375 species of evergreens, bushes and climbers. The Medinilla magnifica undoubtedly stands out for its spring flowering: as we mentioned before, in fact, its flowers are large and pink with drooping habit. While the leaves that cover the stems are also large (they can reach 30cm in length) they are shiny, thick, with wavy edges and deeply veined.

It is certainly one of the most elegant flowering plants that you can grow at home! To get an idea, just think not only of its name, but also of the common names that have been given to it: pink grape, Philippine orchid, pink lantern and candlestick tree. All very evocative names of such a beautiful plant.

Medinilla magnifica has been marketed as an exotic houseplant for hundreds of years. In particular it was much appreciated by the Belgian nobility.

It reaches a height of around 100/120cm and in nature it is an epiphyte, which means that it grows on other larger plants.

TAKING CARE OF MEDINILLA MAGNIFICA

As befits a princess, this houseplant has some rather defined needs that you need to pay attention to if you want it to grow at its best.

Nothing too demanding, just a little attention will be enough!

EXPOSURE

Medinilla it loves sunlight and can be kept under direct raysin summer however, when the sun becomes really hot it is better to move it to more shaded positions.

TEMPERATURE

Its ideal temperature is around 15°C and above. When the temperature exceeds 25°C it is time to shelter the plant.

WATERING

Humidity is essential for Medinilla magnifica to grow healthily. Wetting must also be quite frequent, especially during the flowering periods, the soil must never be allowed to dry out. However, during vegetative rest you can lower your guard a little, giving it to drink only when necessary.

Furthermore it is a good idea to vaporize the leaves, this will help protect it from the attack of the red spider.

LAND

The ideal soil is composed of a mix of peats.

FERTILIZATION

Fertilize with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks after the buds open and until they fade.

MULTIPLICATION

Unlike the Pilea peperomioides that we talked about last week, the Medinilla magnifica is not at all easy to multiply. If you really want to attempt domestic propagation, the way to follow is cuttings, but it is still preferable to purchase young specimens and start growing a new plant with them.

PRUNING

After flowering, damaged or unwanted branches can be pruned to keep their size under control.

What do you think? Are you ready to break up the greenery of classic houseplants a little with this super pink Medinilla magnifica?