A spectacular tropical shrub-like perennial with large leathery leaves and huge pendent panicles of pink flowers shrouded in showy pink bracts. A luxurious feature for warm, humid, shaded positions.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 1 m H × 80 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: high maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Rose Grape
Botanically, Medinilla magnifica is a slow-growing perennial in the Melastomataceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall and 80 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Rose Grape
Rose Grape suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Rose Grape does best in free-draining and acidic soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Rose Grape is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Rose Grape after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is high maintenance.
Using Rose Grape in the garden
Rose Grape earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Rose Grape with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Rose Grape
Plant Sale lists Rose Grape as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.