Knowledgebase
Virgin Island jungle plant #303535
Asked February 28, 2016, 10:59 AM EST
This tree is growing everywhere on Isla Solarte - a small Virgin Island off the caribbean coast of Panama in the Bocos del Toro region. Growing in dense jungle in soil that is heavy with clay, we would like to know what it is and whether it is native or likely to have been planted by man. Any information as to whether it has any medicinal (or otherwise) use would also be appreciated.
Many thanks everyone.
Lauren (and the jungle permaculture team).
County Outside United States
Expert Response
The plant looks like Tibouchina granulosa - an evergreen shrub or small tree native to western Brazil and eastern Bolivia.
This sprawling, evergreen shrub or small ornamental tree ranges from 10 to 15 feet (20 feet with proper training) in height. Older trees become much wider. It is the easiest tibouchina to train into a tree. It can be trimmed to any size and still put on a vivid flower display. The dark green, velvety, 4- to 6-inch-long leaves have several prominent longitudinal veins. Large, royal purple blossoms, flaring open to 2 inches, are held on terminal panicles above the foliage, creating a spectacular sight when in full bloom. Some flowers are open throughout the year but they are especially plentiful from May to January.
