Persian Shield

Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus)

Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus), also known as Persian Violet, is a striking perennial known for its vibrant, iridescent purple leaves that shimmer in the sunlight. This plant is perfect for adding bold color and texture to garden beds, containers, and shaded areas. With its stunning foliage and ability to thrive in partial to full shade, Persian Shield serves as a captivating **focal point** in any landscape.

Distinctive Features

Persian Shield features elongated, lance-shaped leaves that are a deep purple with metallic undertones, giving the plant a unique, iridescent appearance. The plant occasionally produces small, tubular purple flowers, but it is primarily grown for its striking foliage. Persian Shield has a bushy, upright growth habit, making it ideal for containers, shaded areas, or as a focal point in garden beds.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers partial to full shade, thriving in areas that receive filtered sunlight or indirect light for optimal growth and foliage color.


• Soil: Grows best in well-draining, moderately fertile soil. It tolerates a variety of soil types, including loamy and slightly acidic soils.


• Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. It appreciates consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering.


• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity, making it ideal for shaded garden spots or indoor container plantings.


• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 (can be grown as an annual in cooler regions or brought indoors during winter).

Ideal Uses

• Garden Beds: Adds striking color and texture to shaded or partially shaded garden beds, creating a dramatic contrast with other plants.


• Containers and Hanging Baskets: Perfect for containers and hanging baskets, where its bushy growth and iridescent leaves can be showcased on patios, balconies, or porches.


• Indoor Planting: Ideal as a houseplant for bright indoor spaces or near windows with filtered light, bringing vibrant color to your home.


• Focal Point: The vibrant, metallic purple leaves make Persian Shield an excellent focal point in both garden beds and containers, adding texture and drama to your landscape.

Low Maintenance Care

Persian Shield is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives with minimal care. Its ability to grow in low-light conditions and vibrant foliage makes it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

• Watering: Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely to maintain healthy foliage.


• Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant�s shape and overall health. Regular pruning will encourage a bushier growth habit.


• Fertilizing: Fertilize lightly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.


• Winter Care: In colder climates, bring the plant indoors during winter, as it is sensitive to frost. It can be grown as a houseplant year-round in indoor conditions.

Why Choose Persian Shield?

Persian Shield is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a unique, low-maintenance plant that adds bold color and texture to their landscape. Its stunning, metallic purple foliage, ability to thrive in shade, and suitability for containers make it a versatile and visually striking plant.

• Vibrant Foliage: The iridescent purple leaves create a stunning visual effect, adding a dramatic contrast in shaded areas or containers.


• Focal Point: With its striking foliage and bushy growth habit, Persian Shield serves as a beautiful focal point in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets.


• Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners.


• Attractive to Pollinators: The flowers, though less prominent, attract bees and butterflies, adding extra beauty and life to your garden.

For a low-maintenance, visually striking plant that adds color, texture, and charm to your landscape, Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus) is the perfect addition to your garden or container collection.