A spectacular glory bush that erupts in masses of velvety royal-purple flowers in autumn over softly hairy foliage. Fast-growing and showy, best in warm, frost-free gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 4 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Alstonville Tibouchina
Tibouchina 'Alstonville' is a fast-growing shrub in the Melastomataceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Purple flowers appear in autumn.
Where to grow Alstonville Tibouchina
Alstonville Tibouchina suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Alstonville Tibouchina does best in free-draining and acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Alstonville Tibouchina is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Alstonville Tibouchina after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Alstonville Tibouchina in the garden
Alstonville Tibouchina earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Alstonville Tibouchina with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Alstonville Tibouchina
Plant Sale lists Alstonville Tibouchina as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.