Tibouchina urvilleana

I live in the Los Angeles area and can't seem to get Tibouchina to stay full and green. I know it is an open plant but I see them in other yards full and green. what is the secret?

Hi Marie,
L.A. is a large area. Not sure where you live. I have grown Tibouchina in my yard and it looked pretty nice. I live about 10 miles form the ocean, San Diego area. First I think you should prepair the area with an ample amount of a good soil amenment. At least 50% in a generous planting hole. If you are inland some, it will probably do better if it gets a little shade, especially if it is very warm in your area. If the plant is growing kind of open, you can trim back the new growth tips about two inches when it is 6" or 8" long, this will encourage more branching and a fuller plant. Be sure to feed regularly, especially during spring and summer to keep new growth coming and the leaves larger. Stop cutting back about May first to allow the plant to form buds for bloom in summer months. Fertilize with low nitrogen high phosphorus plant food for best bloom. They like to be 'moist' most of the time, don't drown them.