TIBOUCHINA
GRANULOSA 'ROSEA'
This pink form of Tibouchina is
very rare in this country. Even in its native country of Brazil, they are
scarce compared
with regular Tibouchina granulosa which produces purple flowers. Tibouchina
granulosa in North America is confined
to the most southern states (zone 10) and marginal at zone 9. Here, they rarely
reach 20' in height and quite often look
more like large shrubs than trees. They are also suitable for pot culture
in colder climates and can be kept outside as
long as temperatures are above freezing. Unlike most flowering trees, the
Tibouchina granulosa can flower at least twice
a year and in well maintained specimens you can see flowers most of the year.
This Tibouchina prefers full to partial sun
and likes acidic soil. The soil also must have good drainage. It is very important
at planting not to plant it too deep into the
new soil. They are very sensitive in that regard and can decline very quickly
if that occurs. It is advisable
to remove the spent flowers,
or even trim back the tree a little bit after the flowers. This will encourage
bushiness and will speed up the resprouting and reflowering.
They should be regularly
fertilized. The use of an acidic fertilizer may be needed depending on your
local conditions.
A light frost can burn the tops and if the damage is not severe, the tree
should come back with no problem.
Check
out Tibouchina
granulosa and Tibouchina
grandifolia
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