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A soft-stemmed shrub grown for its extraordinary foliage, Persian shield has thick, quilted purple leaves to 6 inches long splashed with iridescent pewter or silver. In autumn, it bears delicate funnel-shaped violet flowers in an eye-catching spike formation.
CareBest grown in part or full shade for optimum leaf color and growth. Needing very little care, it is drought-tolerant, heat-loving, and relatively pest-free. Not hardy beyond Zone 10, so it may be cut back hard in late fall, potted up, and brought inside.
PropagationRoot basal or softwood cuttings in spring or early summer. Cuttings root easily in moist sand.
ProblemsSometimes affected by root rot and spider mites.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler
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- Adjustable collar for partial- to full-circle coverage
- Dial precisely sets spray distance
- On/off switch eliminates trips from sprinkler to spigot
Morvat Heavy Duty Brass Y-Valve
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- Fitted with US Standard NH 3/4" threads for use with most water source fittings
- Screw the 2 way splitter adapter by hand or wrench with the updated hexagonal top connection. The 360° rotatable swivel connection attaches to any water source.
RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer with Brass Swivel
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- Built-in metal filter gaskets can prevent sediment and other larger particles
- Through the Sprinkler Timer program, you can set the start time, watering duration, and watering frequency
- Genus : Strobilanthes
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 11
- Uses : Containers
- Bloom Time : Fall
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Light : Partial Shade to Full Shade
- Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage
- Plant Type : Shrubs
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
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