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Description
Tibouchina Grossa, also known as Purple Glory Tree, is a flowering evergreen shrub that is native to Brazil. It belongs to the Melastomataceae family and is prized for its stunning display of purple flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide and has a dense, bushy growth habit. It is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a pop of color to their landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Genus: | Tibouchina |
Appearance
Tibouchina Grossa has large, dark green leaves that are oval in shape and can grow up to 8 inches long. The plant produces stunning, deep purple flowers that can grow up to 4 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom in late summer and fall and are followed by small, brown seed capsules. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide.
Care Guide
Tibouchina Grossa is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Tibouchina Grossa prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tibouchina Grossa is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tibouchina Grossa is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing leaves and a sticky residue on the plant. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Tibouchina Grossa is native to Brazil and can be found growing in the tropical rainforests of South America. It prefers warm, humid environments and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Tibouchina Grossa?
A: Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings in the winter.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Tibouchina Grossa?
A: Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What hardiness zones is Tibouchina Grossa suitable for?
A: Tibouchina Grossa is hardy in zones 9-11.
Q: How tall and wide can Tibouchina Grossa grow?
A: Tibouchina Grossa can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Tibouchina Granulosa
- Tibouchina Mutabilis
- Tibouchina Urvilleana
References
- “Tibouchina Grossa.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp142
- “Tibouchina Grossa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c847
- “Purple Glory Tree.” Monrovia. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2215/purple-glory-tree/
