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Turquoise Puya

Medinilla sp. 

Most of the 360 species of Medinilla are highly ornamental plants, so it's surprising that only a few of them are in cultivation.  This rare one is said to be Medinilla loranthoides from the island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean.  It's unusual for flowering along the main stems, instead of from panicles on the branches, like most Medinillas.  It's similar to my Madagascar Medinilla, except the fruits are big and showy.  In fact, at 2 cm long, they might be the largest in the genus.  It is super rare.  I don't know anyone currently offering it.

Medinilla sp. Big Fruit

It's a very attractive plant even without blooms.  It grows about 2 feet tall, with succulent stems that look like wood, and thick, leathery leaves about 4 inches long.  Throughout the year, it puts out tight clusters of flowers at various points along the branches.  The blooms have 4 bright pink petals above a red base.  The base swells after pollination into a large, watery fruit.  I don't know if the fruit is edible.  I'm not 100% sure of the species name, but the plant matches the description of Medinilla loranthoides, which is an epiphyte on trees in rain forests.

Medinilla sp.

It grows well between 60 and 85 degrees F (15-29 degrees C).  I have no information how it will do outside that temperature range.  It probably will need to be grown indoors in winter, except in Zones 10 or above.  I find it easy to grow in a pot in a loose medium.  A typical mix is 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part fine-grade orchid bark.  Or use equal parts of coir fiber, perlite, and fine-grade bark.  Keep the mix evenly moist, and give average feedings.  It enjoys bright, filtered light.  It might need some protection from strong afternoon sun.  Over about 60% humidity is best.

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Germination tips for this plant

 

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Turquoise Puya

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