Princess Tibouchina

Tibouchina urvilleana (DC.) Cogn.

tib-ou-KEY-nah ur-vill-ee-AY-nah

Melastomataceae

Explanation of name: Generic name is local name for a species of this genus. Specific epithet for JSC Dumont d’Urville, French botanist (DAV)

Natural range: South America

Recognition: Modest-sized, opposite-leaved shrub. The leaves lancelolate and pubescent. Flowers radially symmetrical except for uneven stamens, purple. Leaves smaller than those of T. grandifolia (lanceolate vs. broadly elliptic-ovate), which differs further by having flowers in large terminal panicles (vs. scattered and axillary).

Landscape uses: Flowering shrub for protected, partially shaded site with adequate water. Beautiful when well maintained, loses its looks readily under poor conditions. Potentially able to grow to 20’ (UFST633), usually much smaller, typically 3’-6’ tall. Although UFST633 regards this species as drought tolerant and best in full sun, my (G. Rogers) experience seems to indicate better luck with adequate moisture and some protection from full sun and wind.