Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus)

Persian Shield Plant Features

Whether you live in the North or South or have sun or shade, you can grow Persian shield. This delightful tropical shrub has been embraced by gardeners everywhere for its amazing purple foliage that has a decidedly iridescent shine. Its unique color makes Persian shield a stunning specimen plant or a top pick for fun combinations in garden beds, borders, or containers. And because it's not particularly large (Persian shield usually tops out around 3 feet tall and wide), it fits just about anywhere. 

We love Persian shield in container gardens. The foliage is an amazing accent for purple flowers, but also looks good with most shades of blue, pink, and white. And you can create a striking contrast by pairing Persian shield with orange or yellow plants. 

Persian Shield Questions?
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Persian Shield Growing Instructions

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. This helps keep the soil cool and moist longer. You can also do this if you grow Persian shield in containers! 

Fertilize Persian shield in spring with a general-purpose fertilizer. Follow the directions on the packaging for tips on how much and how often to fertilize. 

You can prune Persian shield at any time. Pinching it back occasionally encourages the plant to have a fuller, bushier shape -- especially in shade. 

Persian shield is hardy as a landscape shrub in Zone 10. In other areas, grow it as an annual. 

Note: Persian shield is not intended for human or animal consumption.

  • Water

    Medium water needs

    Moist

  • Light

    Outside: Part sun

    Outside: Shade

    Outside: Sun

  • Colors

    Purple

  • Special Features

    Colorful foliage

    Deer/rabbit resistant

Complement your Persian Shield

Gardenia
Gardenia offers beautiful flowers with a lovely scent; Persian shield dresses it up by adding a splash of purple leaves.

Impatiens, New Guinea
New Guinea impatiens add even more color to Persian shield in shaded container gardens. For a bold contrast, try orange impatiens; if you prefer something more subtle, use a lavender-flowering variety

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow
Complement yesterday, today, and tomorrow's flowers with the purple leaves of Persian shield.

Curcuma
Curcuma has beautiful lavender-purple or white flowers that make a delightful accent to Persian shield's amazing foliage.