Medinilla multiflora (myriantha), a hardier Medinilla

[Eric in Orlando]

Medinilla multiflora (formerly M. myriantha) is a flowering shrub from the Philippines. Most Medinilla are very cold sensitive. M. multiflora has tolerated some cold here when grown in a protected location. It is very sensitive to dryness or from nematodes. I have killed quite a few from both. This one is growing in a very protected location in the lower Tropical Stream Garden here at Leu Gardens. It gets very bright filtered light and adequate moisture. It has grown very well and flowers a lot. Medinilla is in the Melastomataceae Family, distant relatives to Tibouchina.

[Eric in Orlando]

[Really full garden]

Eric, are these actually planted or mounted on a log ? I know someone that has this species growing on a large boulder. He never could keep them alive planted directly in the ground.

[Eric in Orlando]

It is planted on a mound that was mixed with some rocks, gravel and orchd bark mix. The bark has long since decomposed but rocks are still there.

[willo68]

Love this plant. Have mine on a wide pot with lava rock below and soil and bark above

and around. Its on a stand where it pretty much hangs and its tripled in size this year.

Started flowering a few weeks ago and cant wait to its change to hot pink.

[Missi]

I had a potted Medinilla magnifica. The plant grew huge but I could never get it to flower.

[annafl]

Eric, our garden in Sarasota has similar conditions to Leu.  Years ago I lost one planted in-ground as it declined and died over a couple of years.  I'm glad I tried again in a pot.  It has a mix of charcoal, tree fern fiber and potting soil and has thrived in this for several years and flowered well.  I just got a tiny one for free at the Selby member's day sale.  Can't wait to bring this baby up.  They are beautiful and easy and say tropical like few others.  More people should try these. Thanks for your post.  Yours is gorgeous!