Pink Medinilla
medinilla intermedia
Also known as: ["Pink Medinilla","Medinilla magnifica"]
Overview
A tropical epiphytic shrub known for its striking pink flowers and ornamental foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Genus: | Medinilla |
| Botanical Name: | Medinilla intermedia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity levels
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with orchid bark, peat, and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light, especially indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light levels seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; ensure excellent drainage to avoid waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; use acidic amendments if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (60–65°F or 15–18°C) at night; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with balanced liquid fertilizer, reduced in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; air layering is also effective for larger plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or sphagnum moss for air layering.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy cuttings; maintain high humidity; keep warm and bright but out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune selectively; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wet leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat or compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning leaf edges; reduced flowering or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot in prolonged cold or damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; increased water loss can lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMedinilla intermedia is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMedinilla intermedia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMedinilla intermedia is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though no specific studies have been conducted to confirm its complete lack of toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Medinilla intermedia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Medinilla intermedia require bright light?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Medinilla turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or insufficient light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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