Persian Shield

Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus)

Persian Shield is a tropical foliage plant grown for its metallic purple leaves that instantly make containers and beds look more intentional. The color reads rich and iridescent in bright shade, giving you high impact without relying on flowers. It fills in quickly through warm weather and stays lush when moisture is consistent. In most climates it is grown as a warm-season annual or overwintered indoors, while frost-free regions can enjoy it as a tender perennial.

Distinctive Features

The long, lance-shaped leaves show deep purple with silvered highlights and darker veining for a dramatic, almost reflective look. Plants form an upright, bushy mound that can be kept compact by pinching and light trimming. Small pale blue flowers may appear in late summer, but foliage is the main feature. In good conditions, plants typically reach about 2 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, with smaller size common in containers and cooler climates.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade, with best foliage color in part shade or bright filtered light.
• Soil: Organically rich, well-drained soil that holds moisture without staying soggy.
• Water: Moderate to consistent moisture, and do not allow the soil to dry out repeatedly.
• USDA Zones: USDA Zones 10 to 11, and grow as an annual or overwinter indoors in colder zones.
• Humidity: Performs best with moderate humidity, especially in containers and indoor overwintering.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a focal point in a container where the purple foliage can anchor the entire design from spring through fall.
• Shade Beds: Plant in bright shade to create a bold color block that lifts darker corners.
• Mixed Containers: Pair with flowers and trailing plants as a strong foliage anchor that stays showy all season.
• Courtyard Gardens: Place in protected spaces where warmth and humidity keep growth lush and full.
• Tropical Accents: Combine with larger-leaf plants to build a layered, tropical look with strong contrast.

Low Maintenance Care

• Pinching: Pinch tips early and occasionally to promote branching and prevent legginess.
• Watering: Water consistently, especially in full sun or containers, since wilting can happen quickly when dry.
• Feeding: Feed lightly during active growth to support steady foliage production, especially in pots.
• Pruning: Trim back as needed to maintain shape and encourage fresh, colorful new growth.
• Overwintering: Bring indoors before frost, provide bright light, and keep soil lightly moist to maintain color.

Why Choose Persian Shield?

• High-Impact Foliage: Metallic purple leaves add instant drama and contrast in beds and containers.
• Season-Long Color: Foliage carries the display through summer without waiting for bloom.
• Flexible Light Tolerance: Performs in sun to shade, with the richest color often in bright shade.
• Easy Shaping: Responds well to pinching and trimming for a dense, polished mound.
• Container Friendly: Simple to grow in pots and bring indoors to extend its life in colder climates.

If you want bold foliage that looks designed from the moment it is planted, Persian Shield is a standout choice. Give it warmth, consistent moisture, and bright light, and it will stay lush and intensely colored through the growing season. For the strongest visual effect, plant in groups or repeat it across containers to create a consistent purple thread.