tropical

Persian Shield

The Story

Plant Bio

Strobilanthes auriculata is an upright, clumping evergreen subshrub native to the damp understories of Myanmar. The species is characterized by opposite, lanceolate leaves with distinctive ear-like auricles at the base that clasp the stem.

The variety dyeriana, commonly known as Persian shield, is distinguished by its highly ornamental foliage featuring a metallic, iridescent violet and silver sheen on the upper leaf surfaces. The undersides of the leaves present a contrasting solid purple-maroon color.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking, iridescent purple and silver foliage that contrasts sharply with green garden plants.

Functions as a highly adaptable container plant that can be easily overwintered indoors.

Offers occasional nectar to generalist pollinators and hummingbirds during its rare winter-to-spring flowering periods.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tropical

Height

36"

Width

24"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

Water

High

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial (grown as annual)

Native To

Myanmar

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Winter – Spring

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site that receives dappled sunlight or partial shade, avoiding direct afternoon sun which scorches the foliage.
Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to create a rich, well-draining medium with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Set the plant at the same depth as its nursery container and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Maintain consistent moisture by watering whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the ground remains damp but never waterlogged.

Pro Tip

Pinch out the growing tips regularly during the spring and summer to prevent leggy growth and maintain a dense, bushy form. Avoid cutting back into old, completely leafless woody stems, as they lack active nodes and will fail to reshoot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Pinch back the growing tips regularly during spring and summer to encourage a bushy, compact habit.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the active growing season to maintain vibrant foliage coloration.
Wear gloves when pruning to protect sensitive skin from potential irritation caused by the plant's sap.
Bring container-grown plants indoors before the first autumn frost to overwinter them in a bright, humid room.

Don't

Do not plant in full, direct sunlight, as intense rays will bleach the metallic colors and scorch the leaves.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, as the foliage wilts rapidly and may suffer permanent damage.
Do not cut back into old, completely bare woody stems during spring pruning, as they will not regenerate new growth.
Do not overwater or allow the plant to sit in standing water, which triggers root rot.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pinch
Propagate
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade border accentContainer specimenAnnual bedding plantIndoor houseplant

Companion Plants

Heuchera Begonia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Persian Shield questions

What zones can Persian Shield grow in?

Persian Shield is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Persian Shield deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Persian Shield, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Persian Shield bloom?

Persian Shield typically blooms in winter through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Persian Shield need full sun?

Persian Shield does best in part shade.