Overview of Princess Flower:
A native of Brazil, princess flower (Tibouchina urvilleana) is a glorious addition to tropical and sub-tropical gardens. Its large purple flowers and soft hairy leaves add interest and a burst of color to any landscape. It can also can be used as an indoor container plant in cooler regions, if full light and warmth is provided. Though it is usually a shrub here, it sometimes becomes large enough to form a small ornamental tree.
Latin Name:
Tibouchina urvilleana. Sometimes it is listed as Tibouchina semidecandra.
Common Names:
Princess flower, glory bush, purple glory bush, lasiandra
Preferred USDA Hardiness Zones:
Zones 9-11. Can be grown in 8, but winter frost will cause it to die back until warmer temperatures return.
Size & Shape of Princess Flower:
Princess Flower is 10-20 feet at mature size; can be pruned to be more compact. The shape is round or vase-shaped.
Exposure:
Plant in full sun, though it can tolerate some afternoon shade, especially in the hottest zones.
Foliage/ Flowers of Princess Flower:
Leaves are 2-6” in length and 1-1.5” wide, covered in soft hair and often tipped with red around the edges.
Flowers are 3-5” wide and a deep, vibrant purple. Princess flower can produce blooms year-round.
Design Tips For Princess Flower:
Use as a specimen plant or for borders and foundations.
The large, vibrant purple flowers and soft, hairy leaves work well in sensory gardens.
Growing Tips For Princess Flower:
Grow in rich fertile soil that is well draining. Soil is best if it is slightly acidic. Fertilize after each time it blooms.
Propagate using softwood cuttings.
Protect against frost and strong winds.
