Purple plants are like nature’s royalty, bringing a pop of mystery, elegance, and charm to gardens and homes. Whether you’re a plant expert or just someone who loves the uniqueness of a purple leaf plant, there’s plenty to discover and enjoy. From deep purple foliage to tropical blooms, purple plants create a stunning visual feast in any space. Today, we’re exploring these magical plants and how to use them to spruce up your space.

Why Purple Plants Are a Must-Have
There’s something truly special about plants with purple leaves. Their rich hues bring diversity and contrast to typical green spaces. Purple plants aren’t just pretty to look at, though. They also symbolize creativity, power, and elegance. Whether in your backyard or on a sunny windowsill, adding purple foliage plants can completely transform your space.
Here’s what makes them the MVPs of the plant world:
- Visual Impact: The color purple stands out, naturally drawing attention and admiration.
- Variety: From deep shades to lavender-colored plants, the variety is endless.
- Mood Boosting: Purple is known for its calming effect, making it perfect for creating peaceful outdoor or indoor vibes.
Now, roll up your sleeves, and let’s break down some of the most popular types of these unique beauties.
Types of Purple Plants for Your Garden
1. Outdoor Head-Turners
When it comes to landscaping with purple outdoor plants, the options are endless. Imagine a row of purple foliage shrubs or vibrant purple leaves tree in your front yard. Here are some favorites:
Purple Fountain Grass
If you love tall plants, this feathery tropical purple leaf plant adds texture and a magical vibe to your garden.
Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida)
This hardy purple landscaping plant thrives in the sun and spreads quickly. Its dark purple leaves are a showstopper.
Loropetalum
This bushy shrub with its reddish-purple leaves makes a stunning border in any garden. Plus, it blooms pink flowers in the spring.
Heuchera
Known as Coral Bells, these easy-to-grow purple-leaved perennial plants are a top choice for gardens in need of bold color.
2. Indoor Purple Powerhouses
Want to bring some life (and color) inside? Check out these houseplants with purple leaves that double as décor:
Wandering Jew
This purple leaf houseplant dazzles with its mix of shiny purple, silver, and green leaves. A true indoor superstar!
Purple Shamrock (Oxalis triangularis)
The triangle-shaped purple leaves of this small plant are mesmerising. And yes, it’s pretty low-maintenance, too.
Persian Shield
With its metallic shine, this purple-colored houseplant is bound to steal the spotlight in your living room.
Calathea Dottie
If you love a pop of fuchsia, this houseplant’s dark leaves with bright purple streaks make it an eye-catching addition to your desk or shelf.
Using Purple Plants in Your Space
Now that you’re familiar with some amazing options, here’s how to make the most of these purple leafy plants.
Add Depth to Your Landscape
Using purple plants for garden borders can create a striking contrast against lighter foliage or flowers. Pair a dark purple-leaved shrub with grasses or white blooms to make the colors pop.
Create a Zen Zone Indoors
A light purple plant in a white or black pot will instantly revamp your coffee table or desk. Mix it with green houseplants for a harmonious, calming arrangement.
Layer Textures and Sizes
Combine the long stems of tall purple leaf plants with smaller bushy ones to add dimension to both indoor and outdoor spaces. For example, pair a large purple leaf plant like the Elephant Ear with creeping purple foliage.
Experiment with Color Combinations
Have fun experimenting! Purple and green leaf plants look fantastic together, while plants with reddish-purple leaves add warmth to your space.
Caring for Your Purple Plants
Maintaining these beauties is fairly easy, but they do have their quirks. Here are a few tips to make your purple plants outdoor or indoor thrive:
- Sunlight Matters:
Most plants with purple foliage love a mix of sun and shade. Always check the sunlight needs of your specific plant. - Water Right:
Overwatering is a big no-no. Stick your finger into the soil to make sure it’s slightly dry before watering. - Feed the Needs:
A balanced fertilizer will keep these purple-leaved shrubs happy and growing. Feed them every few weeks, especially during growing seasons. - Watch Out for Pests:
Like most plants, purple beauties can attract pests. Keep an eye out for bugs and use natural pest control methods to keep them healthy. - Pruning Is Key:
Keep their shape neat and encourage new growth by trimming dead or wilted leaves.
Pro Tip: Add a layer of mulch around your purple outdoor plants to keep their roots moist and happy.
Fun Facts About Purple Plants
- The color purple in plants often comes from anthocyanins, pigments that protect them from UV rays and pests.
- Lavender-colored plants, such as actual lavender, smell as amazing as they look. Double win!
- Some purple foliage shrubs change colors with the seasons, adding even more drama to their appearance.
Popular Purple Plant Combos to Try
Here are a few stunning combos for your home or yard:
- Shade gardens: Combine big purple-leaf plants like Heuchera with Ferns.
- Patios and balconies: Pair purple hanging plants like Wandering Jew with colorful annual flowers.
- Borders: Use the dark purple-leaf perennial plant Loropetalum alongside bright yellow or orange blooms for contrast.
Bringing the Royal Touch of Purple Plants to Your Life
Whether it’s a tall purple leaf plant in your garden or a charming purple greenery brightening up your living room, these plants are guaranteed to impress. With their unique color, easy care, and endless variety, purple plants are the perfect mix of beauty and personality.
Take a stroll through a local nursery or garden center (or hop online!) and explore the world of purple foliage plants. There’s sure to be one—or several—that will capture your heart. Trust me, once you add a plant with purple leaves, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to invite these magical beauties into your life.
From outdoor landscaping to indoor décor, the possibilities are endless. Start small with a purple leaf bush, or go all out with a mix of plants with dark purple leaves—the choice is yours. One thing’s for sure, though: purple plants are here to stay as your new favorite obsession.
Happy planting!