Malaysian Orchid
Medinilla Magnifica
There are about 375 species of Medinilla occurring in the world, with the Philippines having 80 species and is regarded as the centre of diversity of the genus.
Medinilla magnifica is arguably the most famous and flamboyant species of the genus. This plant is absolutely beautiful and some in the ARD team are obsessed with it! It has stunning flowers and huge pink pendulous bracts and is one of the Philippine species. It like a very warm, humid microclimate and has been seen growing in Sydney. It is an extremely popular indoor plant in North America and Europe and will be here as well we are sure – as more people get to know it and it becomes more readily available.
Image mangoandsalt.com
Medinilla magnifica will grow to over 2m and does best where soil can dry in between watering as over-watering can be a problem. As many will grow this plant indoors as a potted plant, try immersing the pot in water for 10 minutes once a week. Drain well before returning to its saucer.
If growing outdoors avoid temperatures below 12C and avoid direct sun as these are a great understory plant and prefer filtered light. Plants should be deadheaded after the flowers have died and this is also a great time to fertilise.
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Hatiora Salicorniodes
Naturally found growing on the surfaces of trees where they attach to the branches.