Medinilla coccinea 'Gregori Hambali' – A Comprehensive Guide


Medinilla coccinea 'Gregori Hambali' is a captivating cultivar renowned for its vibrant pink flowers and lush foliage. Originating from New Guinea, this semi-epiphytic plant showcases broad, deeply veined leaves with purple to reddish undersides, providing a stunning backdrop to its cascading floral clusters. As the plant matures, its visual appeal intensifies, making it a prized addition to any plant collection.
 
● Distinctive Features of Medinilla coccinea 'Gregori Hambali' 


Foliage: Broad, deeply veined leaves with purple to reddish undersides.
Flowers: Vibrant pink blooms forming along upright stems, creating a cascading effect.
Growth Habit: Semi-epiphytic, thriving in well-draining, porous potting mixtures.
 
● Care Guidelines for Medinilla coccinea 'Gregori Hambali' 


Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings; overwatering can lead to root rot. Juvenile plants require less frequent watering. 
Humidity: Thrives in high humidity environments; consider using a humidifier to maintain moisture levels.
Temperature: Ideal temperatures range between 18°C to 25°C; protect from cold drafts.
Soil: Utilize a porous potting mixture, such as sphagnum moss in a clay pot, to mimic its natural semi-epiphytic conditions. 
Fertilization: Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Pruning: Remove spent flowers and any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth.
 
● Etymology


The genus name Medinilla honors José de Medinilla y Pineda, who served as governor of Mauritius (then known as the Marianne Islands) in 1820. The cultivar name 'Gregori Hambali' pays tribute to the esteemed Indonesian plant grower and hybridizer renowned for his contributions to horticulture, particularly in developing numerous Aglaonema hybrids.
 
● Enhance Your Indoor Space


Incorporating Medinilla coccinea 'Gregori Hambali' into your indoor plant collection adds a touch of tropical elegance and dynamic beauty. Its vibrant blooms and lush foliage make it a standout specimen, perfect for plant enthusiasts seeking to enrich their living spaces with exotic flora.