Tibouchina urvilleana
Tibouchina urvilleana (DC.) Cogn. (syn. Pleroma urvilleanum)
Princess Flower is a stunning tropical evergreen shrub native to Brazil with vibrant royal purple flowers and velvety foliage. It offers year-round blooms in warm climates and makes an excellent specimen or container plant.
Melastomataceae (Melastome family)
Late spring to fall (May-November), year-round in tropical areas
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: medinilla magnificas and waratahs also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Princess Flower earned its common name from its regal, royal purple blooms that command attention in any garden. The plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, recognizing its exceptional ornamental value. In tropical and subtropical regions, it symbolizes exotic beauty and is often featured in prestigious gardens and botanical collections. The long flowering period and striking appearance make it a symbol of continuous beauty and natural elegance.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (at least 5-6 hours direct sun for best flowering)
Water
Regular watering during growing season, moderate drought tolerance once established
Soil
Well-drained, Acidic, Rich in organic matter, Loamy (pH 5.5-6.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in acidic, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter
Pinch back young growth to encourage bushier form
Provide afternoon shade in hot summer regions
Fertilize regularly during growing season
Protect from frost; use as annual in cold climates or overwinter indoors
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and size
In zone 8, may die back to ground but resprout in spring
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen plant for tropical and subtropical gardens
- Container plant for patios and terraces
- Can be trained as small tree or espalier
- Long-lasting cut flowers
- Poolside and coastal plantings
- Mixed shrub borders
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tibouchina urvilleana
Is Tibouchina urvilleana a perennial?
Yes, Princess Flower is an evergreen perennial shrub in zones 9-11. In colder zones, it can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors in containers.
How do you care for Princess Flower?
Princess Flower needs acidic, well-draining soil, regular watering, and full sun to partial shade. Fertilize during the growing season and protect from frost in cooler climates.
Does Tibouchina bloom all year?
In tropical areas with warm winters, Princess Flower can bloom sporadically throughout the year. In temperate regions, it typically blooms from late spring through fall.
Can you grow Princess Flower in pots?
Yes, Princess Flower grows well in containers and makes an excellent patio plant. Use acidic potting mix and bring containers indoors before frost in cold climates.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Medinilla Magnifica
Medinilla magnifica
Medinilla magnifica produces spectacular cascading clusters of pink flowers with showy bracts. It symbolizes elegance, magnificence, and refined beauty.
Waratah
Telopea speciosissima
Waratah is Australia's most spectacular native flower with brilliant red dome-shaped blooms, symbolizing love, admiration, and Australian pride as NSW's floral emblem.
Rhodoleia Championii
Rhodoleia championii
Rhodoleia championii is a rare evergreen tree native to southern China and Southeast Asia, admired for its pendulous clusters of rose-pink to scarlet flowers. Poetically called the "King of Hanging Bells" in Hong Kong, it is a refined ornamental prized by collectors and botanical gardens worldwide.