Medinilla magnifica, also known as “Rose Grape,” “Philippine Orchid,” “Pink Lantern Plant,” and “Chandelier Tree,” is a small evergreen shrub native to the Philippines, where it typically grows on trees in tropical forests. Despite its origins, it has been a sought-after indoor plant for centuries, especially among the aristocracy and wealthy in Belgium. If you’re interested in cultivating this unique species at home, here are some tips to help you get started.
Medinilla is a tropical shrub that can reach up to one meter in height and spreads through tree holes and forks like epiphytic orchids. However, unlike orchids, it does not rely on velamen to absorb moisture and nutrients. Instead, it has broad, succulent green leaves that store water similarly to other succulents.
To successfully grow Medinilla, you’ll need to provide warm and humid conditions. It cannot survive temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) and flourishes best in temperatures between 63 and 77 degrees F (17 to 25 C). The plant prefers warm days with filtered light and cool evenings in the 60s (16 to 21 C) to encourage more blooming. Therefore, before bringing this plant home, ensure that you can maintain year-round warm and humid conditions. As a succulent, Medinilla only requires thorough watering about once a week on average, but it enjoys being misted frequently, especially during dry winter months. If you plan to keep it indoors during winter, consider using a humidifier and keep it away from drafty windows and air vents.
Once you understand Medinilla’s needs, caring for it is relatively easy. It thrives in filtered shade to full sun but should avoid intense afternoon light. Removing spent blooms will promote new growth and help maintain the plant’s appearance during the blooming phase.
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