It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 but is more commonly grown indoors or as a summer annual in cooler climates. In zone 9, and during mild winters in zones 7 and 8, Persian shield may die back to the ground after frost but remain alive and regrow the following season .
Is Persian shield perennial?
Persian shield, Strobilanthes dyerianus, is a dramatic addition to any garden. With iridescent purple leaves, Strobilanthes dyerianus is a tender perennial that makes a dramatic addition to any garden.
How do I overwinter my Persian shield?
When overwintering keep the plant as a potted or container plant in a bright and sunny location . Some sources say that this plant is hardy from USDA zones 8 to 11. However, it may die back late in the autumn in zones 8 and 9.
How do you save the Persian shield?
Persian Shields are best kept in reliably moist soil , as inconsistent moisture levels may result in stunted growth and an unhappy plant. Allow the compost's top third to dry out in between waters in the growing period, reducing this further in the autumn and winter.
How do you prune a Persian shield?
Cut Persian Shield back in spring when it becomes leggy. Pinching off its stem tips in spring and summer will encourage branching and create a fuller, bushier plant. Pruning tip: Cut a stem at an angle, just after a node (the place where a leaf is attached to the stem). Cutting here will force the stem to branch out.
Does Persian shield like full sun?
Wonderfully adaptable, Persian shield grows in sun or shade . When grown in full sun, especially in hot climates, it needs regular watering to keep it from wilting. Make growing Persian shield easier by spreading a 3- to 4-inch-deep layer of mulch over the soil around the plant. ... You can prune Persian shield at any time.
What can I plant next to Persian shield?
Persian shield can grow 3 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet across. It can be planted in perennial beds or used effectively in larger container gardens. Because of its colorful foliage, it pairs nicely with silver plants like artemisia or chartreuse plants like ‘Margarita' ornamental sweet potato .
How often should I water my Persian shield?
Persian shield plants require constant moisture. Water them thoroughly and evenly twice a week . The top six inches of soil should be constantly moist. If you notice the soil getting dry between waterings, increase how much you water it.
Why is my Persian shield dying?
Your plant will wilt quickly if it has too little water, and it's immediately obvious. If this happens, increase your frequency of watering to compensate, being sure to keep the soil moist and humidity up around the plant. It bounces back quickly even when it bad shape.
Can you root Persian shield in water?
Propagation of Persian shield – Strobilanthes dyerianus. Cuttings can be made in the usual manner (cuttings page) but a far easier method of propagating is by simply placing the cutting in water . Take a container such as a plastic cup. ... Push your cutting through the hole ensuring the stem reaches into the water.
Should I mist Persian shield?
Persian shield propagation is done through seed or cuttings. ... Mist the medium and place a bag over the cutting . Remove the bag for one hour daily to keep the cutting from molding. In a couple of weeks, the cutting will produce roots and you can replant it in potting mixture.
Is Persian shield toxic to humans?
There is no indication that this plant is toxic ; however, some anecdotal accounts say that the sap can be irritating to your skin. It's always a good idea to protect your skin and to wash up after handling any plant. Persian Shield is no exception. ... The Persian Shield outdoors or as a houseplant – It's Beautiful!
Is Persian shield toxic to pets?
Q: Is Persian shield plant toxic to cats? A: It does not show up on any toxic lists that I can find , but that doesn't mean it is something that a pet should be allowed to eat. Most plants at minimum cause mild stomach distress to cats.
Why is my Persian shield not purple?
If you notice your Persian shield plant is not showing the kind of vibrant purple leaves you expect, the most likely cause is too much sunlight . While this species can survive in full sun, that setting can often diminish the foliage color.
Does Persian shield come back every year?
It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 but is more commonly grown indoors or as a summer annual in cooler climates. In zone 9, and during mild winters in zones 7 and 8, Persian shield may die back to the ground after frost but remain alive and regrow the following season .
Is Persian shield deer resistant?
Persian shield (Strobilanthes) has a leaf texture deer avoid , along with Shirley poppies (Papaver rhoeas) and ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum), in all sizes. Tall verbena (Verbena bonariensis), with its willowy form and pretty purple blooms, adds an airy element to any planting.
