Family: Melastomataceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Medinilla miniata is a tropical flowering shrub native to the Philippines. It is prized as an ornamental plant for its striking clusters of bright crimson to reddish-pink flowers, glossy green foliage, and lush tropical appearance. This species is commonly grown in warm, humid climates as a landscape specimen, patio plant, or conservatory plant, and is especially valued for adding color and texture to shaded gardens. Like other medinillas, it thrives in moist, well-drained soils with protection from strong sun and wind.

Risks & Threats
Although Medinilla miniata is not currently known to be naturalized in Hawaii, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. Species in the Medinilla genus can produce abundant fruits and seeds that may be dispersed by birds and other animals, increasing the potential for spread into natural areas. In tropical island environments with suitable climate conditions, ornamental plants with vigorous growth and effective seed dispersal can sometimes escape cultivation and compete with native vegetation. Ongoing evaluation is needed to determine if this species could impact Hawaii. Careful planting and monitoring are recommended to help ensure that it does not negatively affect local ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Grows in tropical climates
  
• Other Medinilla species have become invasive
  
• Fleshy fruits presumably dispersed by birds and other frugivorous animals
  
• Lack of basic biological and ecological information makes accurate risk prediction difficult

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of naturalization or invasiveness to date (possibly due to relative rarity in cultivation)
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Ornamental with show inflorescence