Princess Flower, Glory Bush
tibouchina mutabilis
Also known as: ["Purple Glory Bush","Violet Showers"]
Overview
A tropical shrub known for its striking purple flowers that change color over time, native to Brazil.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Genus: | Tibouchina |
| Botanical Name: | Tibouchina mutabilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, less often in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter; can use cactus mix amended with peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major shaping in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth annually to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on season to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in filtered light or dappled shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging; water more during flowering periods; adjust based on weather and soil conditions.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress annually with compost.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); sensitive to frost; prefers mild, stable temperatures year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable indoor temperatures if grown as a houseplant.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season, monthly in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; softwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light, and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 8–12 weeks; may take 6 months to establish fully.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant to encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming; thin out crowded stems for better air circulation.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during growing season; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss or compost for acidity and fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Stops flowering and growth; leaves may turn purple or drop; prolonged cold can cause root rot or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect with frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold conditions; provide gentle bottom heat if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth slows under prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter; dilute to half-strength for young plants.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Tibouchina mutabilis. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Tibouchina mutabilis by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTibouchina mutabilis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Tibouchina mutabilis be watered?
A: Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season.
Q: Does Tibouchina mutabilis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Can Tibouchina mutabilis be grown indoors?
A: While possible, it prefers outdoor conditions with high humidity and ample space; indoor growth may be challenging.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Melastomataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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