Lavender Starflower

Plant Type: evergreen shrub/small tree
Plant Height: 8–12 feet
Spread: 6–8 feet
Flower Color: lavender-purple
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Lavender Starflower (Grewia caffra): Long-Blooming Color and Tropical Appeal

Lavender Starflower is an attractive, evergreen shrub or small tree known for its year-round display of delicate lavender-purple flowers. Native to southern Africa, this versatile plant brings a soft tropical feel to Arizona landscapes while thriving in the heat and sun.

Key Features of Lavender Starflower

• Year-Round Blooms: Produces small, star-shaped lavender flowers nearly all year in warm climates.
• Evergreen Foliage: Dense, glossy green leaves maintain a lush appearance year-round.
• Heat Tolerant: Thrives in high summer temperatures and adapts well to desert conditions with adequate water.
• Wildlife-Friendly: Flowers attract pollinators including bees and butterflies.

Growing and Care Tips

Lavender Starflower is adaptable and easy to maintain with the right growing conditions.

Soil: Prefers well-draining soil; tolerates sandy and loamy types.
Water: Moderate water needs; water regularly during establishment, then reduce to deep watering every 10–14 days in summer.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage strong growth and flowering.
Pruning: Can be pruned to shape as a dense shrub or trained as a small ornamental tree.

Landscaping Uses

• Specimen Plant: Works beautifully as a focal point in gardens or courtyards.
• Flowering Hedge: Can be trimmed for a colorful, evergreen screen.
• Poolside Planting: Lush foliage and constant flowers provide a resort-style feel.
• Container Planting: Suitable for large pots in sunny patios or decks.

Summary

Lavender Starflower delivers reliable blooms, evergreen beauty, and a soft, tropical look that suits Arizona landscapes. Its versatility as both a shrub and small tree makes it a favorite for homeowners wanting consistent color and texture.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Lavender Starflower

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for maximum flowering; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil preferred.
Spacing: Space 6–8 feet apart for hedging or mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep the root crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—naturally forms a sturdy structure.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water immediately after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Generally after 3–4 months of consistent watering and visible new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 10–14 days.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if no rainfall occurs.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1–2 emitters 12–18 inches from the base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for young plants; two for mature specimens.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during extreme heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Lavender Starflower:

• Soil Check: Allow top 2–3 inches to dry between waterings.
• Avoid Overwatering: Consistently wet soil can lead to root rot.
• Mulch: Use gravel or bark mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds, keeping it away from the crown.