Persian Shield (1 Gallon)

💜 1 Gallon Persian or Purple Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus)

Add a touch of bold elegance to your garden with the Purple Shield Plant. Known for its velvety deep-purple leaves brushed with iridescent tones, this striking ornamental adds dramatic color and texture to containers, garden beds, and shaded porches.

🌱 A Little History

The Purple Shield, also called Strobilanthes dyerianus, is native to Myanmar and has been admired for centuries in Southeast Asia for its exotic foliage. Introduced to Western horticulture in the late 19th century, it quickly became a favorite among gardeners looking for vibrant color beyond traditional flowers.

💜 What It Means

Purple Shield represents creativity, dignity, and transformation. With its shimmering leaves that seem to change with the light, it’s a reminder of resilience and the beauty of embracing every season.

🌞 Where It Grows Best

This plant thrives in bright, indirect light to partial shade. While it can be grown outdoors in warm climates (USDA Zones 9–11), it also flourishes in containers that can be overwintered indoors. It’s especially stunning as a border plant, in mixed planters, or as a lush accent in shaded gardens.

🌿 Care Instructions

• Sunlight: Prefers partial sun to bright, indirect light.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.

• Feeding: Fertilize monthly during the growing season for vibrant foliage.

• Maintenance: Pinch back stems to encourage bushy growth and maintain shape.

🌸 Complimentary Plant Pairings

Pair Purple Shield with plants that let its jewel-toned foliage shine:

• Lime Green Sweet Potato Vine – for a vibrant contrast.

• Coleus – layered foliage color for a lush look.

• Impatiens or Begonias – flowering companions that thrive in similar light conditions.

• Caladiums – heart-shaped leaves for a tropical display.

✨ Why We Love It: At Wrights Market, we treasure plants that feel special and unique. The Purple Shield isn’t just a plant—it’s living art. With its velvety leaves and rich symbolism, it’s the perfect way to add color, depth, and charm to any Southern garden or porch.