Description

This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)

Tibouchina granulosa (Purple Glory Tree) is a small tree or sprawling shrub. Typically 10 to 15 feet tall, but can be taller. It has gray mottled bark, not showy but without thorns. In nature, it has an irregular rounded crown with somewhat fragile branches; that can be pruned into a single tree or hedge.

Leaves are evergreen to semi-deciduous, dark green, opposite to sub-opposite, velvety to smooth, leathery, simple and ovate: with small teeth on the edges and 4 to 8 inches long. Flowers are shades of purple; blooms are 2 inches wide with long stamens, borne in terminal bunches above the foliage. Bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers.

Furthermore, the fruits are dry, hard, round, brown in color, about 1/2 inch long, containing numerous small seeds. It is propagated by soft wood cuttings. Tibouchina granulosa (Purple Glory Tree) is a pioneer plant and tolerant of a range of soil types, but prefers well-drained sites. As a tree, hedge or on a trelis, this tree is a spectacular sight with its purple blooms. It is ideal as a specimen or accent in gardens, patios and decks, a small street tree, as well as in civic centers and conservatories, either in the ground or in a planter.