Tibouchina granulosa - Purple Glory Tree - Princess Flower
Botanical Name: Tibouchina granulosa
Common Name: Purple Glory Tree
Other Common Names: Princess Flower
| Plant Family | Melastomataceae |
| Mature Size | Average 15' |
| Bloom Color | Bright Purple |
| Bloom Form | Pinwheel, 5 Petaled, Clusters |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to fall |
| Water Needs | Moderate until well established |
| Light Needs | Full sun to very light shade |
| Fragrance | No |
| Key Features | Fast growth, showy bloom |
| Suggested Uses | Specimen, potted, accent, urban |
About Tibouchina granulosa - Purple Glory Tree - Princess Flower:
The vibrant color and small manageable size of Tibouchina granulosa or Purple Glory Tree has made this one of the most popular urban flowering trees for the tropical and semi tropical landscapes. It is one cultivar of more than 450 in this extremely varied species.
In its native habitat, Purple Glory Tree will reach heights of 30 feet or more, but never grows that large in urban settings, with about 15' being the average. They establish to 6' to 10' quickly and then the growth rate slows.
This tree is densely covered with panicles of clusters of single 5 petaled blooms about 2" in diameter in rich velvety royal purple from late spring to early fall. The bloom cycle is long lasting, with color showing non stop for a couple of months.
The narrow lance shaped leaves are dark green and have a rough gritty, granulated texture, from which the Latin name 'granulosa' is derived.
Another neat and unique feature of this tree is that the stems are perfectly square, having 4 distinct angles.
Tibouchina is a semi tropical species, with Tibouchina granulosa being one of the most cold hardy types. A mature tree can withstand temps into the high 20's for short durations with minimal damage. However, young trees must be well protected from frost and freeze until reaching full maturity.
For the best results with Tibouchina granulosa - Purple Glory Tree - Princess Flower
- Plant in well draining slightly acidic soil.
- Locate in the full sun to very lightly dappled shade
- Provide supplemental irrigation until very well established
- Protect from frost and freeze until very well established
- Feed a good quality slow release bloom boosting plant food twice yearly
- Prune frequently and lightly when young for best shape and density
- Protect from frost and freeze
Tibouchina granulosa - Princess Flower
Purple Glory Tree
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