The Malaysian Orchid
This is a tropical to sub tropical plant and Medinilla myriantha requires these warm humid conditions to thrive. From the Philippines and Malaysia it is commonly called the Malaysian Orchid.
This is an evergreen orchid grown for the foliage as well as the colourful flowers which hang down in large clusters, it can be grown as an indoor plant in cooler climates with a little extra care.
The flowers are followed by clusters of small berries which add extra interest.
How To Grow Medinilla myriantha – Basic Care
This is an understory plant so it also needs a shaded position. It is also naturally epiphytic, so good drainage is essential.
Try an orchid potting mix with around 30% sphagnum moss mixed through. His should give you good drainage yet with some moisture.
Direct hot sun should be avoided, try for some good morning sun and dappled shade in the afternoon.
In true tropical areas it will grow outdoors beneath taller shrubs and trees. In cooler climates it is best grown in a container where humidity and moisture can be controlled.
Fertilise with a general purpose slow release type fertiliser when grown in containers. Outdoors a top dressing of cow manure, blood and bone and compost once a year works well.
Pruning
Light tip pruning old flower heads away after flowering will give the plant a more bushy habit as well as promote more flowers.
Other Medinilla species include Medinilla magnifica and the unusual Medinilla gregori hambali.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Medinilla myriantha
- Common Names – Malaysian Orchid.
- Position – Shade to Part Shade.
- Soil – Moist and well drained.
- Height – To around .3 to 1 metres
- Spread – Around .5 metres.
- Flowers – Orange to red.
- Flowering time – In Tropical to sub tropical areas, right through the year.
- Foliage – Mid to deep green..
- Growth Rate – Medium.
- Frost tolerant – No
- Drought tolerant – No
