Medinilla magnifica

Showy Medinilla, Rose Grape, Pink Lantern Plant, Kapa-kapa

Expert careSemi-epiphyteNon-toxic60–250 cm

A tropical hemiepiphyte — a plant that begins life on other surfaces before rooting into the ground — from the Philippine rainforests. It produces large, leathery leaves and drooping clusters of deep-pink flowers. It does best in a heated conservatory or greenhouse with bright indirect light and high humidity. Too large for standard terrariums, but a rewarding houseplant for experienced growers who can provide consistent warmth and moisture.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Showy Medinilla image

Photo by Andrey_Korzun·CC BY-SA 4.0

Care

Prefers high humidity, bright indirect light, with 13–30 °C, and reaches 250 cm at maturity.

Light

Bright indirect(preferred)Indirect light

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
13°C – 30°C

Soil

Loamy(preferred)Well drainingPeat moss

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 6.5

Propagation

Take 10–15 cm softwood or semi-ripe cuttings with at least two nodes. Strip the lower leaves and optionally apply rooting hormone. Root in warm conditions above 20 °C with high humidity and bright indirect light.

Native range

Native to Malesia.

Appearance

Growth habit

Bushy

Leaf shape

Oval

Leaf texture

LeatheryGlossy

Frequently asked

Can Showy Medinilla grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Showy Medinilla prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates bright-indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Showy Medinilla need drainage?

Showy Medinilla prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Showy Medinilla need?

Showy Medinilla does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Showy Medinilla pet-safe?

Showy Medinilla is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Showy Medinilla grow?

Showy Medinilla typically reaches 60–250 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Showy Medinilla?

Showy Medinilla can be propagated by stem cuttings or seeds.

References

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