About Pleroma urvilleanum (DC.) P.J.F.Guim. & Michelang.
Scientific Name and Growth Form
Pleroma urvilleanum (DC.) P.J.F.Guim. & Michelang. is a sprawling evergreen shrub that reaches 3–6 m (10–20 ft) in height and 2–3 m (7–10 ft) in width.
Leaf Characteristics
Its leaves are dark green, hairy, and marked with longitudinal veins.
Flower Characteristics
Clusters of bright purple flowers, each up to 10 cm (4 in) in diameter with black stamens, appear throughout summer and autumn.
Horticultural Award
Under its synonym Tibouchina urvilleana, this species has earned the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Temperature Tolerance
It has a minimum tolerated temperature of 3 °C (37 °F), so it needs some winter protection.
Cultivation Location
In temperate regions, it is most often cultivated in a conservatory, though it can also be grown outdoors in a sunny, sheltered location.
Growth Requirements and Habit
This plant grows best in acidic, well-drained soil, spreads via suckers, and can be trained as a vine to grow on a trellis.
