Medinilla speciosa, common name
Showy Asian Grapes, is a perennial epiphytic plant in the genus Medinilla, belomging to the Melastomataceae family.
The genus was named after J. de Medinilla, governor of the Mariana Islands in 1820.
Medinilla speciosa reaches on average a height of 45–60 centimetres. This evergreen shrub has woody branched stems and opposite leathery green leaves, with prominent veins. The dainty small flowers are bright pink-colored and are produced in large panicles on pendant reddish stems. The flowering period extends from early Summer to Fall. When the blooming is finished for about a month remains a raceme of showy berries, pending that the plant reflowers. These rounded fruits are at first pink and purple-blue when ripe (hence to common name of Showy Asian Grapes.
Distribution:This plant occurs naturally in Borneo, Java and Philippines. In Borneo, the plant can be found at the Kinabalu in the Malaysian part of the island.
Habitat:This species is typical of the mountain forests and prefers shaded areas and moist soils, at elevations between 300 metres and 750 metres above sea level.
Health Benefits of Grapes:
Grapes are a very healthy fruit. They are low in saturated fat and sodium, as well as calories. Grapes also contain no cholesterol. Grapes are high in manganese, flavonoids, and potassium, all of which are important for a healthy diet. They are also high in Vitamin C, which is essential for your immune system, as well as vitamin B1, which provides energy.
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