Carruthers' Falseface

Carruthers’ falseface (*Pseuderanthemum maculatum*) is a tropical evergreen shrub grown for glossy, variegated foliage and clusters of pink flowers. The leaves combine green with purple and silver tones, giving the plant color even when it is not in bloom. ## Foliage and Flowers Singapore’s National Parks Board lists *P. maculatum* as the accepted name and gives *Pseuderanthemum carruthersii* among its synonyms. Its pointed leaves may be dark green suffused with silver and purple, while the pink flowers deepen in color at the throat. The shrub can reach about 2 m tall, and its moderate growth makes it useful as a foliage accent in warm, sheltered landscapes. ## Siting Grow in full sun or partial shade in rich, moist, well-drained soil. Mulch or compost helps maintain the moisture and organic matter this tropical shrub prefers. In cooler climates, keep it in a warm greenhouse or container that can be protected from cold. ## Maintenance Prune regularly to control size and encourage a compact, vigorous crown. Stem cuttings root readily in warm potting mix. Watch for fungal problems and sucking insects, which the NParks profile identifies as potential issues. [NParks: Pseuderanthemum maculatum](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/2/3/2366)