One of nature's grand plants. Easily grown to a rounded bush with velvet green leaves and large luxuriant royal-purple flowers from summer into autumn and on into spring in mild districts. An native of South America, this is a shrub to use for a tropical look in not-so-tropical areas!
Feature:
Lush royal-puple flowers and rich velvet leaves.
Uses:
Shrub borders, background plantings. Plant where its unique velvet foliage can be appreciated.
Position:
Sunny or lightly shaded. Well-drained. Shelter from harsh winds and frost. Will handle colder conditions than Zone 10 if sheltered.
Care:
Prune to two thirds of size after flowering. Mulch with compost and apply a light dressing of acid fertiliser late in summer. Do not use lime.
