Persian Shield (Strobilanthes auriculatus var. dyeriana)

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden awarded plant as Top Performer and Containers in 2010.
Used in Victorian times.
Can be overwintered under light and used for cuttings to root & use outside in spring.
Plant has some awesome shimmering foliage.

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Posted by plantladylin on Oct 15, 2011 4:46 PM
Native to Southeast Asia, Persian Shield is a fast-growing, soft-stemmed perennial sub-shrub that has iridescent purple leaves with green veins. The reverse side of the leaf is purple. The plant is mainly grown for its lovely foliage, but it does bear small, funnel-shaped, pale violet/purple flowers on short spikes. It requires bright light, but no direct sun, which will burn the foliage. Persian Shield makes a nice single specimen plant and also looks great in mixed container plantings. Pruning will help to keep a compact shape. Persian Shield requires good drainage and is drought tolerant once established.

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I had one two years ago. It was funny: I saw it online and was enchanted. I searched until I found some online and kept them in the greenhouse for months, thinking they were rare and exotic, and then saw them at Lowe's. Thanks for taking away the mystique, Lowe's!

Actually, the mystique was not diminished. Don't think it's possible. The colors are out of some sort of fantasy world. I have never ever seen that metallic sheen on another plant in my life.

They grew two feet tall in the garden. The habit was a little gangly and awkward as they got large because the plant is so upright and spiky, and I didn't account for that, placing it close to the front. I failed to take cuttings or bring It indoors and now I miss it. Well, now I know to look at Lowe's, I guess. Thanks, Lowe's...

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Wonderful shade plant in Florida. Does get thirsty and will wilt, but perks right back up with a good watering. Grows very fast and needs trimming. Put cuttings back down into the pot. They root easily. The plant is tender, but mine has survived temps as low as 38. To be safe, take some cuttings before winter and root them. If you let them go, they will get flowers similar to coleus flowers. Makes a great container plant with coleus for outstanding color combinations.

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