Pleroma mutabile aka T Ibouchina Noelene

Pleroma mutabile is an evergreen tree from southern and southeastern Brazil. It belongs to the Melastomataceae family. The RHS lists Tibouchina mutabilis as a synonym. This name appears in the Useful Tropical Plants account. Its native climate is wet and tropical. It grows in Brazil's Atlantic rainforest, mainly where woodland has regrown after disturbance. It favours moist ground on slopes. In some of these sites, it becomes the main tree species.

The tree has an open crown and a short, slim trunk. Reported heights span about 23–39 feet [7–12 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants also gives a general height of 33 feet [10 metres]. These figures do not distinguish garden trees from wild trees. The trunk measures about 0.7–1 foot [0.2–0.3 metres] across. It keeps its leaves year-round. The source illustrates flowers, leaves, young fruit, and ripe seedpods. Its flower captions also note a range of colours.

Choose a sunny spot for cultivation, following the Useful Tropical Plants account. Growth is moderate rather than fast. Trees raised from seed can reach around 8 feet [2.4 metres] within two years. Its wild habitat points to a preference for moist soil. The supplied species accounts give no frost limits or hardiness zones. They also give no detailed soil mix or watering schedule. The tree has ornamental value in landscapes. Its role as a pioneer also suits projects that restore native woodland.

Local people sometimes harvest its wood from wild trees. The wood is soft despite its moderate weight. Its low quality limits its uses. These include beams, rafters, poles, and fence posts in dry settings. Wood-eating insects can attack it. Useful Tropical Plants records no known food or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for people or pets.

Fresh seed offers a way to raise new plants. Sow it soon after ripening, as storage life is short. Use a nursery bed with partial shade. Cover the tiny seeds with only a thin soil layer. Cloth over the soil helps prevent watering from washing seeds away. Remove the cloth once shoots appear. Germination takes about 15–25 days, though few seeds may sprout. Move young seedlings into separate pots. They can be ready for planting out six or seven months later.