Marcgravia sintenisii – rare Puerto Rican shingling vine with red new growth


Marcgravia sintenisii Urb. is a rare tropical vine native to Puerto Rico, admired by collectors for its dramatic shingling growth and striking coloration. New leaves emerge in vivid shades of red before maturing into deep, glossy green, creating a “rainbow” effect that has earned it the nickname Rainbow Marcgravia. Unlike smaller marcgravias, this species is notable for its size and vigor, making it a spectacular choice for vertical planting in terrariums, greenhouses, or mounted displays.
 
● Key traits of Marcgravia sintenisii


Growth type: Evergreen climbing vine with a distinct shingling growth pattern.
Foliage: Young leaves flush red, fading into bright to dark green as they mature.
Size: One of the larger Marcgravia species, with impressive climbing potential.
Habit: Clings to vertical supports using adventitious roots; thrives in humid conditions.
 
● Natural habitat of Marcgravia sintenisii


This species is endemic to Puerto Rico, where it climbs over trees and rocks in humid montane forests. Like other members of the family Marcgraviaceae, it thrives in warm, consistently moist environments with filtered light. Its natural growth as a shingling climber allows it to maximize light capture in the shaded understory, gradually transitioning to larger foliage as it ascends higher into the canopy.
 
● How to care for Marcgravia sintenisii


Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; direct midday sun can scorch delicate new leaves.
Temperature: Warm conditions of 18 – 28 °C are ideal; avoid cold drafts below 15 °C.
Humidity: Requires high humidity (70 – 90 %) to maintain healthy growth and proper shingling.
Watering: Keep substrate evenly moist but never waterlogged.
Substrate: Well-aerated, moisture-retentive mix with organic matter; adapts well to semi-hydro substrates.
Feeding: Light, balanced fertilizer every 3 – 4 weeks during active growth.
Support: Provide a vertical mount, moss pole, or background to encourage natural shingling.
 
● Potential problems with Marcgravia sintenisii


Leaf curling: Usually a response to low humidity or underwatering.
Stalled growth: Often caused by insufficient light or lack of vertical support.
Pest issues: May attract spider mites or thrips in drier indoor climates.
 
● Additional notes


Marcgravia sintenisii is a standout species among marcgravias due to its vibrant new growth and larger mature size. It is highly sought after by terrarium and aroid collectors who want to add structural and color contrast to vertical displays. When given consistent humidity and a climbing surface, it establishes quickly and rewards with steady, dramatic growth.
 
● Etymology of Marcgravia


The genus name Marcgravia honors German naturalist Georg Marggraf (1610 – 1644), who explored and documented the flora of South America. The suffix “-ia” is a standard New Latin botanical ending for genera. The species epithet sintenisii commemorates Paul Ernst Emil Sintenis (1847 – 1907), a German botanist and collector who contributed extensively to Puerto Rican botany.
 
● Questions about Marcgravia sintenisii


Is Marcgravia sintenisii suitable for terrariums? Yes, provided there is enough vertical space and stable humidity.
Does it always show red leaves? The red flush is strongest on new growth; older leaves turn deep green.
How large can it get indoors? With support, stems can extend over 1 – 2 meters, depending on conditions.
 
● Add Marcgravia sintenisii to your collection


If you’re looking for a rare climber that combines vibrant colors, unique shingling growth, and impressive size, Marcgravia sintenisii is an exceptional choice. Order now and bring a true Caribbean rarity into your plant setup.