Persian Shield
Strobilanthes gossypinus is an interesting evergreen small to medium shrub with opposed leaves. It will reach around 1m (3ft) in height with a width of around 1-5m.
The grey green foliage makes this great foliage plant the common name is Persian Shield, and it is also also known as the Pewter Bush, although it is actually from the hilly areas of Southern India and Sri Lanka.
It grows well in full sun to part shade and a well drained humus rich soil. Like all Strobilanthes species need protection from frost.
The foliage is best described as a silver to grey-green color with fine hairs to add texture, the reverse or underside is felted.
This is a plant that will grow well in pots it will thrive in the garden border where it adds contrast texture. Given good growing conditions it will reach a height of around 1 – 1.5m and form a nice rounded shape.
How To Grow Strobilanthes Gossypinus – Basic Care
This is an easy care plant and is best in bart shade to full sun depending on the climate.
Although it originally from a warm climate this is a plant that prefers a little shade from the hot afternoon sun.It grows well in a humus rich soil and the foliage is at its best in a frost free position
- Choose a frost free sunny position with some afternoon shade
- A well drained soil is required
- Dig in some organic matter such as compost, and some aged cow manure before planting.
- Fertilise in spring
- Mulch around the plant to suppress weeds and retain some moisture
- Prune in early spring, just before new growth commences.
Easy to maintain, prune to shape as required. Strobilanthes as reasonably drought tolerant once established. Good drainage during the colder months is essential.
Planting Suggestions
Try Strobilanthes gossypinus between Magnolia Little Gem for a lower growing plant with great foliage contrast. It also looks good plated with Agaves, Kalanchoe, Salvias and Agastache.
Propagation
Propagation is easy from cuttings taken in spring.
- Take a 10 cm tip cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove foliage except for the top two sets of leaves.
- Trim the remaning leaves in 1/2 to reduce transpiration.
- Dip the cutting in a hormone rooting powder or liquid.
- Place the cutting in a propagation soil.
- Cover with a mini greenhouse.
- Place the cuttings in a warm position out of direst sun.
- Mist spray
- In around 6 – 8 weeks roots should have formed.
- Pot up the following spring as new growth commences.
Summary
- Botanical Name – Strobilanthes gossypinus
- Common Names – Persian Shield and Pewter Bush
- Aspect – Part sun to Light Afternoon Shade in warmer areas. Frost free position
- Soil – Humus rich, moist, well drained. Drought tolerant once established.
- Plant Type – Perennial in warmer climates.
- Height – To around 3ft (1metre) easily pruned.
- Spread – 1m.
- Foliage – Felty soft silvery green.
- Flower – Insignificant
- Flowing Period – Spring
- Features – Attractive foliage.
- Landscaping Uses – Ground cover plant for mixed color with other plants. Good in coastal conditions. Excellent textured foliage.
- Propagation – Easy from softwood cuttings taken in spring.
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