10 Before mobile phones and their handy cameras, there were occasions when I was captivated by an unnamed plant and could only rely on keeping its appearance in my memory. This was the case with a Rose Grape, first seen as a glorious, flowering potted plant in a stationery shop in Italy in 1996. I was able to learn its name when I came across a Rose Grape Medinilla magnifica in all its exotic, tropical bloom in a basket at the floral pavilion at Floriade in the Netherlands in 2012 (pictured). Little did I know that there are over 300 species of Medinilla, native to South-East Asia, New Guinea, India, and western parts of tropical Africa. Several species including a climbing Daintree Medinilla - Medinilla balls-headleyi are native to far north Queensland. Belonging to the Plant Family Melastomataceae means they are related to popular Tibouchina plants. Learning they are a species that thrive in the warmth and humidity of the tropics would suggest they would be a challenge with our cooler, drier winters. Not so! Some species are epiphytic in nature, growing on tree trunks, otherwise as shrubs. The Medinilla species we have grown have all had woody stems, large deeply veined, leathery leaves, and masses of delicate flowers hanging in long panicles from the branches. Bright pink or burgundy inedible berries follow. Finally, some years ago we were able to purchase a Pink Lantern - Medinilla myriantha. It’s not quite up to the brilliance of Rose Grape but is thriving and flowering almost all year as a pot plant (pictured) in a sheltered, warm location in our courtyard. We also propagated cuttings of Orange-Coral Medinilla - Medinilla scortechini (pictured close-up flowers) which we’ll soon plant at home. Apart from the Daintree Medinilla, those mentioned have now become available at some nurseries and all are worthy of locating in your garden or as a pot plant. Remember – no frost, a warm, sheltered location, and in the morning sun or bright shade. Pruning is only necessary to maintain the shape suited to your garden. Good drainage is important with moderate watering. Footnote : The Netherlands will no longer host its world horticultural expo Floriade. The Dutch Horticultural Council (NTR) announced the end of Floriade which blossomed once every decade from the 1960’s. Gardening by Kate Heffernan Honorary Life Member Friends of GCRBG, Botanic Garden Consultant Medinilla scortechini Medinilla berries Medinilla magnifica Medinilla myriantha 0417 294 778 A Touch of Grass Garden Care GARDEN CLEANUPS / REJUVENATION & MAKEOVERS A SPECIALTY We offer an experienced, professional and reliable service Call Jeremy on ... Est. Gold Coast since 2001 Let us create your new and rejuvenated garden where you can sit back, relax and enjoy your tranquil surroundings ... Specialising Garden Makeovers & Rejuvenation * Garden Care * Plant Selection * Soft Landscaping
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