Strobilanthes-Persian Shield

Strobilanthes is commonly called Persian Shield, a name intended to describe the shape and exotic coloring of the stunning foliage. Each 6-8 in long, finely toothed leaf is dark bronze-green overlaid with purplish pink and frosted silver. The effect of a mature plant, which can grow 3ft tall and as wide, is that of an iridescent tapestry, against and through which the silver leaves of Plectranthus and the bright blooms of Petunia integrifolia bob and weave in perfect harmony. Strobilanthes will grow in full sun here but seems happiest where it receives some afternoon shade. Pale blue flowers are occasionally produced on short spikes in late summer but attract little notice.