Tibouchina heteromalla

Tibouchina heteromalla, commonly known as the Silverleaf Princess Flower, is a stunning evergreen shrub in the Melastomataceae family. Native to Brazil, this plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It features a dense growth habit with large, velvety leaves that are silver-gray on the underside and dark green on the top. The oval-shaped leaves have pointed tips and can reach up to 6 inches in length. The Silverleaf Princess Flower produces striking purple blooms from late summer through fall. These large, showy flowers have five petals and a diameter of about 2 inches. They attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making this plant a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden. Tibouchina heteromalla thrives in full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering during its growing season but should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Overall, Tibouchina heteromalla is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking an attractive shrub with stunning purple blooms and year-round foliage interest. Its velvety silver-gray leaves make it perfect as a specimen plant or as part of mixed borders or hedges in tropical gardens or landscapes where frost is infrequent.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Shrub

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Tibouchina

Family

Melastomataceae

Hardiness Zone

10-12

Mature Height

1.22 m to 1.83 m

Mature Spread

40 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

Leaf Type

Semi-evergreen

Flower Color

Purple

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

Brazil, Bolivia

Tags (5)

Common Names (4)