Persian Shield Deflects Old Man Winter's Thrusts

Does Old Man Winter have you down? The long nights and short days of this time of year send many of us deep into the doldrums. So how do you beat the winter blues? Marie Iannotti's answer is "Persian Shield" (Strobilanthes dyerianus).

"Persian Shield is an apt name for this iridescent leaved tropical plant," says About.com's Gardening Guide. Marie notes that the variegated leaves of this foliage plant will brighten a border in the summer (it is used as an annual plant outdoors in the North).

But perhaps its greatest contribution for the winter weary comes right now: as a house plant. Says Marie: "While we all wait for this endless winter to wind down, you might want to get a Persian Shield plant or two and start making cuttings to brighten up and fill your containers this summer."

Sounds like a plan.

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