Hi Stephen,

Medinilla magnifica

Medinilla magnifico  is a beautiful flowering plant often called a Philippine Orchid. In the Philippines, Medinilla magnifica grows in the forks of large trees. It is an epiphyte, a plant that grows on other trees but doesn’t get its food from those trees. In warm climates, it’s grown as a perennial. The plant produces large flowers several times a year and is not difficult to care for.

Allow the soil to dry out and the plant to be light when you lift it, then water well. You should water a Medinilla magnifica every 7-10 days from the bottom but don’t allow the plant to sit in water after 10-15 minutes.  The ideal growing temperature is about 65°F to 78°F). Cooler night-time temperatures help the flowers last longer and new buds develop faster. A Medinilla likes bright lightVery few houseplants should be placed in direct sun. High light refers only to bright indirect light since direct sun often burns the leaves of indoor houseplants. An area that is too hot and dry encourages Spider Mites and causes blooms to quickly fade. A northern exposure really doesn't provide enough light for high light plants. These plants need to be placed directly in front of an east-facing window, within 1-3 feet of a west-facing window, and within 5 ft. of a south facing window. A high light area has over 300 ft. candles of light. and during the winter, from November to March, Medinilla’s can even be in the direct sun. From March to November, keep them in bright indirect lightVery few houseplants should be placed in direct sun. High light refers only to bright indirect light since direct sun often burns the leaves of indoor houseplants. An area that is too hot and dry encourages Spider Mites and causes blooms to quickly fade. A northern exposure really doesn't provide enough light for high light plants. These plants need to be placed directly in front of an east-facing window, within 1-3 feet of a west-facing window, and within 5 ft. of a south facing window. A high light area has over 300 ft. candles of light. so the leaves don’t burn. I love this plant and think your Mom will also.