Tibouchina aspera — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Tibouchina aspera

Tibouchina Aspera

Updated · 2 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Tibouchina aspera is a species of flowering plant in the family Melastomataceae, native to Central America and tropical South America. It was first described by Jean Fusée Aublet in 1775. In the original description of the species, it was suggested that the plant was inhaled to treat chest pain and dry coughs.

A note from PlantMom

Pleroma tibouchinum has strong disease resistance and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When planted outdoors it needs little watering, and larger plants usually do not require pruning; however, smaller plants should be pruned after they finish blooming. Pleroma tibouchinum is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much prior gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Tibouchina Aspera.

Light

Pleroma tibouchinum is native to habitats such as forest understories or rocky areas, which are naturally shaded. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, demonstrating its versatile and hardy nature.

Temperature

Pleroma tibouchinum comes from tropical areas where the climate is generally warm and humid. Consequently, it is adapted to high temperatures and humidity. It does not tolerate sudden temperature changes and prefers a consistent temperature, so avoiding indoor temperature fluctuations is important. It usually cannot withstand cold and requires warmer conditions to grow. If the surrounding temperature becomes too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Fertilizer

The best time to fertilize a Pleroma tibouchinum is in early spring, as it breaks dormancy. This supports overall growth and encourages flower development. Fertilization improves the foliage, stems, and branches, and fosters large, vibrant, long-lasting flowers. It helps transfer nutrients from the roots to the flowers and enhances the plant's health and resistance to disease.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Tibouchina
Family
Melastomataceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
2.13 m to 3.96 m
Mature Spread
1.52 m to 2.44 m
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Pink, Purple, Blue
Flower Size
5.08 cm to 6.35 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Fall
Native Area
Colombia, Belize, Honduras, Bolivia, Venezuela, Peru, Guyana, Brazil, Nicaragua, Panama
PLATES
Tibouchina aspera leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Tibouchina aspera leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Tibouchina aspera flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Tibouchina aspera flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Tibouchina aspera habit
PLATE 05 · habit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

You might also like.