24 Must-Have Purple Leaf Plants to Add Color to Your Landscape

So, are you ready to change your green spaces to the realm of the extraordinary with the help of purple-leaf plants? If yes, then keep on reading as we’ll take you on a dazzling journey through the world of purple-leaf plants. We can assure you that they will transform your garden by adding vibrant shades of purple, from deep plum to rich magenta, creating a striking contrast against the backdrop of lush greens.

Why purple-leaf plants, you ask? Well, they not only add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your surroundings. They create a dramatic focal point, a vibrant border, or a captivating container garden.

Whether you are designing a sprawling landscape, a cosy patio garden, or adding life to your indoor environment, we are listing 24 brilliant plants that offer endless possibilities for creativity and inspiration.

Purple-Leaf Plants For Your Garden

1. Purple Heart Plant

The Purple Heart Plant, also known as Tradescantia pallida, is a low-maintenance, versatile, and visually stunning plant. Its long, trailing stems boast succulent-like leaves in deep, rich purple shades. This hardy purple-leaf plant is not only a visual treat but also an easy-to-grow and adaptable addition to any green space.

It thrives in various conditions, from full sun to partial shade, making it an ideal choice for gardeners with limited light options. It’s also drought-tolerant, making it perfect for busy plant lovers or those just starting in the world of gardening.

2. Persian Shield

The Persian Shield, scientifically known as Strobilanthes dyerianus, is a tropical plant characterized by its iridescent, purple-silver leaves that shimmer in the sunlight. The vibrant, almost metallic hues of this plant make it an instant attention-grabber, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space it occupies. This plant thrives in both indoor and outdoor environments, allowing you to enjoy its beauty year-round. When grown outdoors, it is an ideal choice for adding colour to borders, beds, or containers. Indoors, it makes an excellent focal point, brightening up your living space with its striking appearance.

Another advantage of the Persian Shield is its relatively low maintenance requirements. It prefers well-draining soil and a balance of sunlight and shade, making it suitable for various light conditions.

3. Oxalis triangularis

Oxalis triangularis, commonly known as the Purple Shamrock or Love Plant, is a delightful perennial with distinct, triangular-shaped leaves in a rich shade of purple. This purple-leaf plant not only offers a striking visual appeal but also boasts an intriguing feature: its leaves open up in daylight to capture the sun’s rays and fold down at night as if it’s sleeping. The fascinating movement adds a touch of whimsy and wonder to any space.

The Purple Shamrock produces dainty, trumpet-shaped flowers that rise above its foliage, adding another layer of visual interest and charm. These tiny blooms not only enhance the plant’s beauty but also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy ecosystem in your garden.

4. Purple Waffle Plant

The Purple Waffle Plant, scientifically known as Hemigraphis alternata, is a tropical plant characterized by its small, crinkled leaves with an intriguing waffle-like texture. The top of the leaves showcases a deep green hue, while the undersides boast a stunning shade of purple. This unique combination of colours and textures adds depth and visual interest to any space it inhabits.

Purple Waffle Plant offers air-purifying abilities. This plant is effective in removing pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene from the air, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. So if you are looking to improve air quality within your homes or offices, the Purple Waffle plant can be an excellent choice. This low-maintenance plant is suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

5. Black Coral Elephant Ear

The Black Coral Elephant Ear, scientifically known as Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Coral’, is a tropical plant boasting large, heart-shaped leaves in a deep, glossy black hue with prominent bluish-purple veins. This dramatic purple-leaf plant creates a bold statement in any setting, evoking an air of exotic elegance and sophistication.

It’s another low-maintenance plant, although its dramatic yet captive presence makes it an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate a bold, tropical touch into their space.

6. Coleus

Coleus belongs to the genus Plectranthus, and it’s an eye-catching plant known for its richly patterned, multi-coloured foliage that comes in a dazzling array of hues, including purple, red, pink, yellow, and green. This plant can thrive in both sun and shade, making it perfect for gardeners with limited sunlight or those looking to add a splash of colour to shaded areas. Coleus also grows well in containers, making it a popular choice for balconies, patios, or indoor spaces.

Another advantage of Coleus is its low-maintenance nature. This plant requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners who desire a stunning plant without too much hassle. Pinching back the tips of the plant will encourage bushier growth and even more vibrant foliage. Plus, Coleus is generally pest-resistant, ensuring that your green space remains healthy and vibrant.

7. Gomphrena

Gomphrena, which is also known as Globe Amaranth. You can easily distinguish these plants with the help of their round, button-like blooms. And this plant doesn’t just come in purple colour, but it comes in a variety of vibrant colours like pink, white, and orange. Creating a cheerful and lively atmosphere.

Gomphrena is a heat and drought-tolerant plant. It thrives in hot, sunny conditions and requires minimal watering. The plant’s sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms also make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, both fresh and dried, adding an extra layer of value to this delightful plant.

8. Purple Sage

Purple Sage is a perennial herb with striking grey-green leaves that are infused with a deep purple hue. This beautiful plant not only adds a touch of colour to your garden but also fills the air with a pleasant, earthy fragrance that is both soothing and invigorating.

Purple Sage is also used in culinary and medicinal applications. For centuries, the leaves of this plant have been used as a flavorful herb in a variety of dishes and as a natural remedy for various ailments. It’s another low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a range of soil types and can handle changing climates.

9. Japanese Maple Tree

The Japanese Maple Tree is a small deciduous tree known for its delicate, finely-cut foliage that comes in a wide range of colours, including shades of purple, red, orange, and green. The intricate leaf shapes and vibrant hues are what attracts people’s eye.

Although as compared to normal trees, its relative size is small, reaching between 10-25 feet. Making it ideal for both urban and suburban landscapes. The best thing about Japanese Maple Trees is that they bloom year-round, with vibrant leaves in the spring and summer.

10. Tradescantia Pallida (Purple Spiderwort)

Tradescantia pallida is a perennial plant known for its pointed leaves that boast a striking deep purple hue. The contrast between the lush, purple foliage and the small, delicate pink flowers that bloom from spring to fall creates a beautiful and visually appealing atmosphere.

This plant can grow well in a variety of soil types and light conditions, from full sun to partial shade, making it a low-maintenance plant. Purple Spiderwort also attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy ecosystem.

11. Dark Opal Basil

Dark Opal Basil belongs to the family of Ocimum basilicum. It’s a unique and eye-catching herb that won’t just add a touch of colour and texture to your garden but will also fill the air with its pleasant, sweet aroma.

This flavorful herb can be used in a wide range of dishes, including salads, pasta, sauces, and even desserts. Apart from that, Dark Opal Basil is relatively easy to cultivate, making it ideal for busy gardeners. Dark Opal Basil also offers potential health benefits, as it’s rich in antioxidants. It protects the body from free radical damage. For centuries, It has been used in traditional medicine to alleviate inflammation, soothe the stomach, and promote overall well-being.

12. Purple Velvet Plant

The Purple Velvet Plant is a unique and eye-catching houseplant known for its velvety, deep purple leaves that seem to shimmer with a silver sheen. The contrast between the soft, purple foliage and the bright, golden-orange flowers creates a beautiful and peaceful feel.

Purple Velvet Plant also helps in purifying the air, removing toxins and pollutants. This plant is known for its ability to boost mood and reduce stress. Having this plant around can create a positive impact on mental health, and the unique beauty of this plant can bring a sense of calm and happiness to your everyday life.

13. Perilla Frutescens

Perilla frutescens is a herbaceous annual plant characterized by its large, serrated leaves that boast a striking purple hue on one side and vibrant green on the other. This flavorful herb is used in cuisines, mainly in Asia. Its unique, minty, and slightly spicy flavour can be used in a wide range of recipes, including salads, sushi, pickles, and stir-fries.

Another advantage of Perilla frutescens is its ease of cultivation. It can thrive in a variety of soil types and light conditions. Its size is relatively small, making it suitable for both garden beds and containers. This purple-leaf plant has also been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits.

14. Ajuga Reptans (Bugleweed)

Ajuga reptans is a perennial, evergreen ground cover characterized by its dense, rosette-like clusters of leaves that boast a deep, purple hue. The contrast between the rich, purple foliage and the tall spikes of vibrant blue flowers that bloom in late spring creates a visually appealing and lively atmosphere in any space it inhabits.

One of the primary benefits of Ajuga reptans is its ability to spread quickly and form a dense carpet, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking an attractive and low-maintenance ground cover. This plant thrives in a variety of soil types and light conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and its ability to suppress weeds makes it perfect for reducing maintenance and creating a polished appearance in your garden.

Ajuga reptans are known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting a healthy ecosystem in your garden and supporting biodiversity. Its beautiful blue flowers not only enhance the visual appeal of your garden but also contribute to the well-being of the local pollinator population.

15. Red-leaf Banana Tree

The Red-leaf Banana Tree is a fast-growing, herbaceous perennial characterized by its large, paddle-shaped leaves that boast a vibrant, deep red, almost purple hue with hints of green. This visually stunning plant can reach heights of up to 10 to 20 feet, creating a captivating focal point and adding a touch of drama and tropical flair to any space it inhabits.

It thrives best in full sun and well-draining soil. It can also tolerate partial shade, making it a versatile addition to your green space. It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground, allowing you to enjoy its beauty and tropical ambience in any setting.

Furthermore, the Red-leaf Banana Tree is known for its low-maintenance requirements. Although it is not a true banana tree and does not produce fruit, its stunning foliage requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to add an exotic touch to their garden without significant upkeep.

16. Fuchsia

The Fuchsia is a flowering plant characterized by its pendulous, teardrop-shaped flowers that come in a wide range of vibrant colours, including pink, red, purple, and white. These eye-catching blossoms, often with contrasting sepals and petals, dangle gracefully from arching stems, creating a visually appealing and enchanting atmosphere in any space they inhabit.

Fuchsia attracts pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies, which won’t just add visual appeal but also contribute to the well-being of biodiversity. Fuchsia bloom typically lasts from spring through fall, ensuring that your green space remains vibrant and colourful for an extended period.

17. Purple Smoke Bush

The Purple Smoke Bush is a deciduous shrub or small tree characterized by its striking, dark purple foliage and its cloud-like clusters of tiny, smoky-purple flowers that appear in the summer. These ethereal blooms create an enchanting, smoke-like effect, which gives the plant its name. Reaching heights of 10 to 15 feet, the Purple Smoke Bush adds a dramatic and eye-catching focal point to any space it inhabits.

Another advantage of the Purple Smoke Bush is its ability to create visual interest and contrast in your garden or landscape. The deep purple foliage and smoky blooms create a striking contrast against lighter-coloured plants and flowers, adding depth, drama, and sophistication to your green space. Its unique appearance also makes it an excellent specimen plant or addition to mixed borders and shrub beds.

18. Borage (Starflower)

Borage is an annual herb distinguished by its fuzzy, oval-shaped leaves and striking, star-shaped blue flowers that bloom throughout the summer. The delicate blossoms will add a touch of whimsy and beauty to your garden.

Borage is a favourite among these beneficial insects, and by incorporating this plant into your green space, you not only add visual appeal but also support biodiversity and promote a healthy ecosystem. Additionally, Borage is known to be a fantastic companion plant, helping to deter pests from nearby plants and improving overall plant health.

Furthermore, Borage is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. The oil extracted from Borage seeds is used as a supplement and may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable addition to your natural remedy toolkit.

19. Liriope

Liriope is an evergreen perennial characterized by its dense, grass-like foliage that can range from deep green to variegated patterns and its spikes of small, purple, or white flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. The flowers are often followed by clusters of black or dark purple berries, adding visual interest and extending the plant’s display into the winter months.

Liriope is another low-maintenance plant, drought-tolerant, and requires minimal upkeep. Liriope’s dense growth also helps suppress weeds and can be used as ground cover in borders or walkways.

20. Red Cabbage

Red Cabbage is a biennial vegetable characterized by its vibrant, deep red or purple leaves that form a compact, round head. This visually stunning plant adds a striking pop of colour to your vegetable garden and can even be incorporated into ornamental gardens for added visual interest.

Red Cabbage has an impressive nutritional content, Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre. This vegetable can be enjoyed raw in salads, pickled, fermented, sautéed, or added to various dishes such as stir-fries and soups.

And just like many other plants in this list, Red Cabbage is also a relatively low-maintenance plant. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil types. 

21. Barberry

The Barberry is a deciduous or evergreen shrub characterized by its small, oval-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colours, including green, golden, and deep purple. Some varieties even boast striking variegated patterns. This beautiful purple leaf plant also produces small, yellow flowers in the spring, followed by red or dark purple berries in the fall, which add visual interest and attract birds and other wildlife.

The Barberry’s ability to withstand drought, urban pollution, and salt spray also makes it an excellent option for challenging planting sites.

Another advantage of the Barberry is its versatility in terms of landscape use. Its dense, compact growth habit and variety of sizes make it an excellent choice for hedges, borders, or foundation plantings. The striking foliage colours and textures also make it a fantastic specimen plant or a component of mixed shrub beds, adding depth and visual interest to your garden or landscape.

22. Euphorbia

Euphorbia is a diverse plant family which includes over 2,000 species. They are known for their unique, often colourful foliage and their distinctive, long-lasting flowers. Many species of Euphorbia require low maintenance, and being drought-tolerant, they don’t demand constant attention. Euphorbia is known for its pest and deer resistance.

Many species in this genus produce a milky sap that deters browsing animals, helping to protect your garden from unwanted damage. This resistance ensures that your green space remains vibrant and healthy, with minimal interference from pests.

23. Heuchera (Coral Bells)

Heuchera is a perennial plant that comes in various colours, including purple, red, and orange. This plant produces beautiful and delicate bell-shaped flowers even while receiving minimal upkeep. Heuchera’s dense growth suppresses weeds, reducing maintenance and creating a polished, tidy appearance in your garden.

It offers a compact size and a variety of foliage colours that make it an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, woodland gardens, or ground cover. The striking foliage colours and textures also make it a fantastic container plant, allowing you to get creative with your plant arrangements and make a statement with your green spaces.

24. Purple Leaf Sand Cherry

The Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is a deciduous shrub or small tree characterized by its deep purple, almost black, foliage that adds a bold and striking contrast to any garden setting. In spring, this purple-leaf plant produces beautiful, fragrant, pale pink to white flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, further enhancing the allure of your garden.

Purple Leaf Sand Cherry requires minimal upkeep. Its pest-resistant property ensures healthy yet vibrant growth. Its striking foliage colour, reddish-purple fruits, and fragrant flowers make it a perfect addition to add depth and texture to your green space.

Final Note

As you can see, these purple-leaf plants are incredibly diverse, and we’ve only scratched the surface. Imagine how your garden or home will look like when you incorporate all 24 varieties. The visual appeal and peaceful ambience of these plants are totally unmatched, and their bold colours will definitely make your guests turn their heads and spark conversation.

So, are you ready to create a garden that stands out from the rest? Embrace the power of purple and invite these 24 brilliant plants into your garden. We guarantee that you’ll not only elevate your garden’s beauty but also create a unique and unforgettable space that everyone will love.

Let the power of purple transform your green spaces.