About 20 years ago, we planted a Tibouchina urvilleana (Princess Flower) bush in our seldom-used backyard. It eventually grew to about 15' tall and branches about 10' wide. With the current shelter-in-place, we started a good trim-back of the bush. We found that it has spread along the sides with many suckers, has pushed the back fence almost over, and is growing up now through the seams in the concrete patio. What can we do to eliminate or contain this plant at this point? Chemically or hiring someone to dig it out completely? We are in Northern California, Sunset Zone 14.
With such an invasive species, and not knowing how widespread the root system is- I would advise calling a professional. This will help to avoid doing more damage than good, since there can be unintended consequences for these situations.
This page will help you to find the closest extension service, which will be able to help you with your issue:
I just bought the Princess flower, I put it in the pot with intention to bring it in during the winter months, but I would rather planted it in the ground to let it grow. So, is it a perennial? I live in Atlanta , GA.
Yes, this is a perennial and can be grown outdoors in your area, however, it will die back in winter frost. Here's an article about this beautiful plant:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/princess-flower-bush/growing-princess-flower.htm
I am in the Chicago area. If so what can I do? Thank you in advance for you time and advice.
Unfortunately, your photo did not come through. I am unable to see the state of the tree.
You can test if it still has life by bending the tip of the branch. If it snaps and is brittle, then keep going down until you find tissue that is not brittle. Cut down to that point, but don't cut into the living tissue.
If there is any life left, this will usually coax it back out a little.
If this is planted outside, and not in container, and brought in- The tree is fully dead, as they are only hardy in zones 9 and 10.
Here is an article that will help you to care for the shrub:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/princess-flower-bush/growing-princess-flower.htm
About 20 years ago, we planted a Tibouchina urvilleana (Princess Flower) bush in our seldom-used backyard. It eventually grew to about 15’ tall and branches about 10’ wide. With the current shelter-in-place, we started a good trim-back of the bush. We found that it has spread along the sides with many suckers, has pushed the back fence almost over, and is growing up now through the seams in the concrete patio. What can we do to eliminate or contain this plant at this point? Chemically or hiring someone to dig it out completely?
If you want to keep it, you can cut it way back and it won't hurt it. If you think it needs to be moved, you can relocate one of the suckers and then have the rest removed by a reputable tree company.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/princess-flower-bush/growing-princess-flower.htm
My outdoor Tibouchina (Princess Flower plant) bloomed the first year it was planted but since then has been loosing leaves (they turn yellow-orange and drop off). Could this be due to soil that is not acidic enough? If so, can I use acidifier for hydrangeas to change the ph? Or just lack of fertilization in general? Thank you.
You're right that they do need acidic soil, but don't overdo it. A pH of 7 or below is fine.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/princess-flower-bush/growing-princess-flower.htm Use the same fertilizer that's used for rhododendrons and azaleas. You may want to test your soil to make sure it's not too alkaline.
Another thought is that you may have overwatered it in the cool weather and waterlogged the roots. If that's the case, it should come back as the season changes. Make sure to keep the surrounding area clear of dead leaves, and examine the bush for any pests that may have taken up residence.
My Princess flower tree tipped over in a wind storm and the two trunks split along the bottom. The trunk is split but not completely detached, can I wrap it back together and brace it upright again, or will it not work? If yes, what should I wrap it with?
Yes, it is possible to tape broken stems. These articles should help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/grafting/reattaching-broken-stems.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/fixing-bent-stems-plants.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/wind-injury-to-plants.htm
Hi: I have T.urvilleana that have thrived in plastic pots in full sun in Houston until about a month ago. They're in an azalea mix, and I'm careful with the water. Yet, the plants are dying, but it's not uniform. One entire stem dies slowly, while the others keep growing and blooming for now. I've seen this happen with this species in the ground as well. What the hell can I do? Please post Dave Sherron in Houston
Typically, this is attributed to two different diseases. Phytopthora root rot and Verticillium wilt will be most common. Here are some articles that will help you to deal with these situations:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/what-is-phytophthora.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/verticillium-wilt-treatment.htm