Strobilanthes ‘Persian Shield’

Strobilanthes dyerianus ‘Persian Shield’

Characteristics

Culture

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 9-11 and may be root hardy to Zone 8. In Texas, Strobilanthes ‘Persian Shield’ is usually grown as annual bedding plants that are replaced in the garden each spring or in pots or containers which are overwintered indoors or as houseplants. Pinch stems as needed to avoid legginess and stimulate bushiness. Best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade and likes consistently moist soils. Best foliage color in part shade. Full sun is probably best only in cool summer climates. Strobilanthes ‘Persian Shield’ plants may be overwintered indoors in a bright sunny room, however as plants age and begin to develop woody stems the quality of the foliage color usually declines. Consider taking cuttings from overwintered plants for spring planting and/or taking cuttings in late summer for overwintering.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Strobilanthes ‘Persian Shield’, is native to Burma (Myanmar). It is a soft-stemmed, tropical, evergreen shrub or subshrub that is grown primarily for its attractive iridescent purple foliage. It grows 3-4’ tall in frost-free climates, but typically grows 1-3’ in the cooler areas. Features ovate-lanceolate dark green leaves (to 8” long) that are flushed with silvery-purple iridescence above and dark purple beneath. Spikes of tiny violet 5-lobed funnel-shaped flowers usually do not bloom outdoors during the hot growing season, but infrequently may be seen on overwintered plants in greenhouses.

Problems

Watch for spider mites on indoor plants.

Garden Uses

Annual bedding plant. Containers. Houseplant.