Description

Medinilla magnifica, commonly known as lilac, treasure lotus, powdery acid pole foot, or pearl treasure lotus, belongs to the Peony family. It is a small perennial evergreen shrub that typically reaches a height of 1.5 to 2.5 meters. The stems are characterized by four edges or wings. The opposite leaves are ovate to elliptic, reaching approximately 30 cm in length and 18 cm in width, with a smooth margin. The leaves are glossy green with prominent ivory-white veins.

The bracts are pink, arranged in layers, with clusters of cherry-red flower spikes hanging between each pair of bracts. These spikes or panicles droop and can grow up to 45 cm long. Surrounding the flowers are pink or pink-white involucral bracts, approximately 2.5 cm in length. The spherical fruits are pink, topped with persistent sepals.

Natural flowering and fruiting occur from February to August, with individual plants often blooming continuously for 3 to 5 months.