Tibouchina Melastoma lepidota alba Andean Princess Flower Live Plant Rare White Flower Bush Starter Size

Tibouchina lepidota alba is a white flowering, semi-tropical, medium-sized tree-like shrub native to South America.  The white-flowered variety is somewhat rare and lesser known.  It is commonly called Andean Princess and also sometimes referenced as Ecuador Princess, Alstonville, Glory Bush, and Lasiandra, but those names generally refer to the purple flowering  types of this same species as others.the Alstonville is a reference to a small town in Australia where a purple flowering cultivar of what is believed to probably be the T  urvilleana species was selected and marketed by the horticultural renowned Dunstan Family.

Tibouchina is a large genus of more than 450 species, so the nomenclature, especially as it relates to common names, is often confusing.    Andesanthus lepidotus is an alternative synonym name.  

However,  by any name, the Andean Princess is a lovely, versatile, and uncommon plant.   Unlike many rare plants, it is easy to care for, establishes quickly, requires minimal care and maintenance,  and usually begins blooming quickly, generally within the first warm season after planting.    

The plant has medium green, pointed oval, textured leaves with prominent red to dark green veins born on thin, wiry stems contrasting nicely against the prolific show of medium-sized, five-petaled, single flowers.  The pink to lavender stamens and slight pink blush to the edges of the flowers are an attractive compliment to the white blooms.  This plant is an excellent design choice for creating a soft and peaceful garden atmosphere.  

It also grows somewhat smaller and slower than the purple flowering species, maturing at about 5 to 7 feet, making it well-suited for accent and feature arrangements in smaller urban lots and designs where a shorter and more manageable boundary hedge is desired or as a large outdoor potted plant.  It is easily pruned and maintained at a lower height if desired.   It produces scant seed that does not germinate readily, so it does not typically spread beyond the intended planting area.

This product cannot be shipped to Hawaii.