Beautiful Colour Pleroma Urvilleanum Flower

Pleroma urvilleanum: The Jewel of Tropical Horticulture
Introduction
Pleroma urvilleanum, commonly known as the Princess Flower or Tibouchina, is a strikingly beautiful plant that captivates gardeners and botanists alike. Native to Brazil, this tropical flowering shrub has made its way into gardens worldwide, thanks to its vibrant blooms and ornamental foliage. This post delves into the various aspects of Pleroma urvilleanum, from its botanical characteristics to its cultivation and care, making it a jewel of tropical horticulture.
Botanical Characteristics
Taxonomy and Nomenclature:
Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Myrtales
Family: Melastomataceae
Genus: Pleroma
Species: P. urvilleanum
Pleroma urvilleanum is a member of the Melastomataceae family, which includes around 200 genera and 4500 species. It was previously classified under the genus Tibouchina but has since been reclassified to Pleroma. This change reflects ongoing botanical research and a deeper understanding of plant relationships within this diverse family.
Morphology:Leaves: The leaves of Pleroma urvilleanum are a deep green, ovate to lanceolate, with a distinctive velvety texture. They typically measure 5-15 cm in length and have pronounced veins, giving them an attractive ribbed appearance.
Flowers: The most striking feature of this plant is its flowers. They are large, measuring 7-10 cm in diameter, with a rich purple hue that can sometimes appear almost electric blue. Each flower has five broad petals and prominent stamens with bright yellow anthers, creating a stunning contrast.
Growth Habit: Pleroma urvilleanum is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 2-3 meters in height, though in cultivation it is often maintained at a more manageable size. Its branches are woody and can be pruned to encourage a bushier growth habit.