H A RSLUG DY HOUSEPL T K T KT K A N TS
easy come, easy grow Whether it’s too much water, too little sunlight or too many curious cats, killing houseplants often seems easier than keeping them alive. But before you brand yourself a black thumb, consider these foolproof indoor options, as they’re reliable, readily available and likely to flourish with a minimum of fuss. BY TOVAH MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY KINDRA CLINEFF
Although it doesn’t look tough as nails, Medinilla myriantha is amazingly durable.
Medinilla Medinilla ALSO CALLED
OTHER ATTRIBUTES
WATER REQUIREMENTS
Malaysian grapes SIZE Ranging from 24 to 36 inches (60 to 91 cm) high or larger FOLIAGE Broad deep green leaves with pleats
Wonderful grapelike clusters of pink flowers throughout autumn and winter, followed by purple nonedible berries EXPOSURE South is best; east or west also works
Very thirsty
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RATE OF GROWTH Slow SOIL TYPE Rich, humusy potting
soil with compost included FERTILIZING Early spring to late autumn
ISSUES Drinking habit can be a deal-breaker if you’re not home COMPANIONS This is a standalone specimen, but begonias, nerve plants, orchids and prayer plants might grow in tandem
CANADIANLIVING.COM | JULY 2015
