Tibouchina granulosa "Rosea"

This Tibouchina is a tropical tree native to Brazil. It may not be cold hardy except in south Florida where Gardino Nursery gives the following account. "This pink form of Tibouchina is very rare in this country. Even in its native country of Brazil, they are scarce compared with regular Tibouchina granulosa which produces purple flowers. Tibouchina granulosa in North America is confined to the most southern states (zone 10) and marginal at zone 9. Here, they rarely reach 20' in height and quite often look more like large shrubs than trees. They are also suitable for pot culture in colder climates and can be kept outside as long as temperatures are above freezing. Unlike most flowering trees, the Tibouchina granulosa can flower at least twice a year and in well maintained specimens you can see flowers most of the year. This Tibouchina prefers full to partial sun and likes acidic soil. The soil also must have good drainage. It is very important at planting not to plant it too deep into the new soil. They are very sensitive in that regard and can decline very quickly if that occurs. It is advisable to remove the spent flowers, or even trim back the tree a little bit after the flowers. This will encourage bushiness and will speed up the resprouting and reflowering. They should be regularly fertilized. The use of an acidic fertilizer may be needed depending on your local conditions. A light frost can burn the tops and if the damage is not severe, the tree should come back with no problem." We propagated this from material at Armstrong Atlantic State University in Savannah, Georgia where it may be a "die-back" shrub.