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

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

Appearance

Growth habit

Bushy

Leaf shape

Oval

Leaf texture

LeatheryGlossy

Distribution

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.