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| Category: Shrub |
| Family: Melastomataceae (Melastomes) |
| Origin: Indonesia (Asia) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Pink |
| Bloomtime: Summer/Fall |
| Height: 3-4 feet |
| Width: 4-5 feet |
| Exposure: Shade |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): High Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 30-32° F |
| May be Poisonous (More Info): Yes |
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Medinilla speciosa (Showy Asian Grapes) – A small woody shrub to 3-4 feet tall with square stems and large (up to 8 in. long and 6 in. wide) leathery leaves that have prominent veins typical of a Melastome (a plant in the Melastomaceae). In the warmer months, from late spring to fall, appear the numerous small pink flowers, borne in panicles on pendant pink stems, that later form rounded fruit that starts pink and matures to blue. This fruit is likely the basis for the common name "Showy Asian Grapes" though we have found no reference indicating the fruit is edible and in fact the genus is included in the "The poisonous plants of the Malay Peninsula.". Plant in a shaded or morning sun location – this plant of the mountain forests of Indonesia does not like to get too dry so it is best to water regularly. It is sensitive to temperatures below 30 °F and can grow in gardens in frost free coastal California locations, but can also be used in the conservatory or as a house plant. Our seed from Ginny Hunt of Seedhunt. The name Medinilla honours J. de Medinilla, of Pineda, Governor of the Mariana Islands in the 1820's.
This description of this plant is based on our research and our observations of it growing at the nursery, in our own garden and in other gardens. We always appreciate receiving feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or have additional cultural tips that would aid others growing Medinilla speciosa .
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