A showstopping large shrub that smothers itself in vivid royal-purple flowers in autumn above velvety ribbed leaves. A favourite warm-climate feature; frost-tender and acid-loving.
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 Lasiandra
Botanically, Tibouchina lepidota '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 Lasiandra
Lasiandra suits subtropical, tropical 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
Lasiandra does best in acidic, free-draining and loamy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Lasiandra 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 Lasiandra after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Lasiandra in the garden
Lasiandra earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Lasiandra with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Lasiandra
Plant Sale lists Lasiandra 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 we have it ready.