A symbol of royalty and elegance, purple is a favorite flower color that enhances a garden’s palette. When Pantone declared ultraviolet the Color of the Year in 2018, it described the shade as one that exhibits originality and ingenuity.
It may not be a popular choice when deciding on interior design or a wardrobe outfit. Still, color plays a key role in landscaping and gardening. It can anchor bright colors and is perfect for adding contrasting elements to your garden setting. It is no wonder why this color is one of the first things that come to mind when deciding on your garden’s color combinations.
Summary
There are hundreds of different types of purple flowers, let alone 250 distinct species of Nepeta. Dwarf Iris is our favorite purple perennial flower out there. Verbena is our favorite small and simple type of purple flower to consider for your home. Our best recommendation for purple flowers that bloom in the spring is Campanulaceae from the Bellflower family. The Garden Phlox is our favorite type of tall purple flower.
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There is a wide range of shades in which they bloom. The mixture of blue and red is often associated with a calm ambiance and creates a relaxing mood. Ones where blue is more dominant often create a soothing effect and promote spiritual calmness. Flowers leaning toward red are seen as more energetic.
These different combinations yield an array of shade variations that are sure to add depth to your outdoor space. From dark violet to soft to lavender, the choices are far and wide depending on the shade and tone.
This article identified some of the most popular options and categorized them based on their shape and shade. We’ll also go over their height and growing cycles.
Table of Contents
- Types of purple flowers
- 1. Lalla Aster
- 2. Garden Phlox
- 3. Bloomerang Lilac
- 4. Dwarf Iris
- 5. Ornamental Onion
- 6. Boltonias
- 7. Hydrangea
- 8. Bougainvillea
- 9. Campanulaceae
- 10. Honeywort
- 11. Vinca
- 12. Foxglove or Digitalis
- 13. Tradescantia Pallida
- What Are Perennials?
Types of purple flowers
Underneath, we have a list of the types of purple flowers, ranging from small to perennials.
1. Lalla Aster
There are various small options out there. Lalla Aster is a favorite among pollinators. Thanks to its tiny and light-purple flowers, it makes for a perfect front yard plant. This low-growing option produces ray-shaped blooms that thrive in full sunlight. Blooming between April and July, Creeping Speedwell is another low-growing plant ideal for ground cover. It also comes in very handy in landscaping. It has four-petaled tiny flowers and kidney-shaped leaves and prefers to grow in neutral soil with consistent moisture.
Even if you are new to gardening, Lavender will surely be no stranger. This familiar purple perennial is very popular for its lovely fragrance, making it a common ingredient in many household items. While lavender is best known for its deep blue-purple color, other varieties come in white and light pink. English Lavender hybrids are the most recommended if you live in a cooler climate.
If you are into arrangements, you may be familiar with Verbena. It has small blooms that come out in the summer. Fresh Verbena adds depth to a garden, though they also look great when dried. This requires well-drained soil and full sun. Lilac is another excellent example.
This one is widely used for bouquets and is commonly related to Easter as it is known as a symbol of rebirth. Aside from their pretty appearance, Lilacs are cultivated for their scent.
Be sure to check out these articles on fruit flies and cucumber leaves! We also have articles on marine plywood and three-phase engines.
2. Garden Phlox
Measuring 2 to 5 feet on average, Garden Phlox is a great choice if you want to add a variety of tall purple perennials to your garden. These bloom between mid-summer and autumn and lure hummingbirds and butterflies. They are resistant to mildew and are a favorite for landscapes as they are relatively easy to maintain.
Another low-maintenance but equally beautiful tall perennial is the German Bearded Iris. While this one comes in different shades, it is most popular for its hue. It enjoys some shade from time to time but makes a full bloom when under full to partial sunlight.
Also known as Wolf’s Bane, Monkshood is a tall perennial bloom through autumn. It provides a nice lilac shade for the fall foliage. Unlike Garden Phlox and German Bearded Iris, Monkshood is more difficult to grow and maintain and requires extra care. It grows in moist and well-drained soil, but too much water could drown its roots.
Monkshood makes for a perfect background plant. Its owners must place it away from pets, like:
It is highly poisonous.
Allium is a nice ornamental cut used for arrangements and dried bouquets. This perennial may not be as popular as its peers, but it is equally gorgeous with its bulb-shaped blooms. This keeps deer and chipmunks at bay. It enjoys full sun and requires well-drained soil. Another tall one is Vervain, which is used in herbal medicine.
Its jagged leaves characterize it, and five-petaled bloom between mid-summer and early fall. This one can reach up to 5 feet in height. It thrives in moist soil and enjoys full sun. Herbal medicine practitioners use Vervain for its purported pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. But for aesthetics, this is a favorite in landscaped gardens.
3. Bloomerang Lilac
Aside from plants, trees that bear purple flowers can also add a nice contrast of colors to your yard. One excellent choice is the Bloomerang Lilac tree, known for its jasmine-like fragrance. This tree grows to a maximum height of six feet while it blooms twice each year. You can plant this tree beside your porch, in front of your yard.
Known for its resilience, the Royal Empress is a fast-growing tree that provides a generous amount of shade. It’s thanks to its huge leaves and high-branched canopy. It produces a sweet scent and offers gorgeous lavender in spring. The Royal Empress requires partial to full sunlight and grows best using organic fertilizer with high nitrogen content. With a height of 40 to 50 feet, this tree is converted into hardwood by fine furniture makers in some countries using metal lathes.
The Jacaranda tree is a spring-bloomer that reaches up to 40 feet and spreads up to 30 feet. A sea of lavender covers this tree during spring, making it a nice movie-like backdrop. Make sure not to put this tree near a pool or the driveway, as its flowers tend to cover the entire ground and create a mess once they drop.
4. Dwarf Iris
Purple and yellow may not be the best color tandem. Perennials that combine these shades prove to be nothing short of attractive. One example is the Dwarf Iris. Its dark petals can easily identify with a touch of yellow in the middle. It is ideal in containers or at the front of borders. It blossoms in late winter through early spring, making for a lovely display on balconies or patios.
Cosmos also has purple petals and bright yellow blooms, magnets for butterflies and birds. This daisy-like specimen grows easily by scattering seeds and remains in full bloom for months. Cosmos are perfect at the back of borders and other tall flowers with their long stems. Bearing a slight resemblance to Cosmos are Coneflowers, which have light petals and a yellowish head in the middle.
This type is resistant to drought and is a favorite among pollinators. Pasque is another perennial with a golden yellow center. This is native to Western Asia and central Europe and naturally grows on moist meadows. It thrives in medium-moisture soil and full sunlight and requires extra effort when transplanting due to its long roots. Aside from adding color to your garden, the Pasque has other uses. It’s particularly useful for herbal medicine. Homeopaths recommend this one for treating coughs and clogged noses. It is also believed to help treat some skin conditions and inflammation.
5. Ornamental Onion
Another perennial is one in the deep lavender shade. These dark flowers easily stand out given their rich and thick shade that offers a nice contrast to your green landscape.
Also known as Ornamental Onion, Allium has round flowers in spring and summer. They come in various shades, but they are more popular for their deep wine purple color. Another one in this category is Salvia nemorosa, also called Perennial Salvia or Garden Sage.
It attracts onlookers with its violet-blue color and dark purple stems. A native to Western Asia and some parts of Europe, this perennial is easy to propagate. It requires only a little sunshine and watering.
Wild Indigo is a robust perennial that produces pea-like flowers. They naturally grow in meadows or along streams. Wild Indigos can also be used as plant anchors and are suitable for home landscaping.
This low-maintenance plant has branched and deep roots, allowing it to weather drought. Its seeds need to be soaked in water for about 24 hours before planting. Attracting pests should not be a problem when cultivating Wild Indigos, which remain attractive all year round.
6. Boltonias
Adding contrast to deep-shaded perennials, light flowers are warm to the eyes and offer a comfortable ambiance. Its ray-like flowers characterize Boltonia, or False Aster is a charming perennial blooming in late summer. A row of this flower will look excellent at the back of your garden as it grows up to 8 feet in height.
Boltonias thrive in full sun but do not mind some afternoon shade. You can cut a few stems of Boltonia and place them in a ceramic or stainless steel vase and use it as a gorgeous accent for your foyer. The maker of the vase probably used one of these best plasma cutters in the process!
You can also consider growing Hesperis Matrionalis, more commonly known as Sweet Rocket. This biennial option produces blooms in white and purple and has a lovely fragrance in the evening. Gardeners often mistake Sweet Rocket for Phlox because of their physical similarities. Their number of petals can distinguish them. Sweet Rocket has four-petaled flowers, while Phlox has five. This one has lance-shaped hair leaves, which some people use in salads.
7. Hydrangea
If you want to create a meditation garden, consider bushes with purple flowers in your landscape. Bushes are perfect additions to your outdoor space, whether as decorations or other foundations. They also add structure and character to your garden, especially when maintained properly.
One of the most popular shrubs is Hydrangea, which grows in well-drained and fertile soil. It thrives in partial sunlight. Color correction is possible for this plant, allowing it to transition from purple to pink. It depends on the soil pH and other factors.
Azaleas are also popular shrubs that look the best right on your front porch. This one is nicknamed “Royal of the Gardens,” thanks to its vibrant colors in different shades. They thrive in partial shade and may require extra watering when under a dry spell. If possible, keep Azaleas away from the direct midday sun. Their leaves tend to burn or dry out when exposed to too much heat, possibly creating fire.
| Name | Encore Azalea Autumn Royalty |
| Expected Blooming Period | Spring to Fall |
| Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Outdoor |
| Item Weight | 5 Pounds |
| Product Care Instructions | Water 2-3 times per week |
| Special Feature | Extended Bloom Time |
| Sunlight Exposure | Full Sun |
Pros
- The plant looked great when it showed up.
- The seller continuously gets good reviews.
- The plant was very healthy.
Cons
- There’s always a risk associated with shipping live plants.
- The plant we received was a bit smaller than expected.
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8. Bougainvillea
If you want to add elegance to your home garden, you will never go wrong with vines with purple flowers. While they are harder to keep, vines can add depth to your outdoor space if regularly trimmed and maintained. One example is Bougainvillea, a type of thorny ornamental vine native to countries in southern America.
This vine can be grown against a fence or as a ground cover. It also fits well on a trellis or even in a container! It enjoys hot weather and requires at least 6 hours under the sun for its flowers to bloom best. This vine yields flowers in different colors, but the ones in purple stand out.
Also a fan of tropical climate, Passion Vine is easily recognized for its exotic look in white and purple. This vine rapidly extends and grows on fences and walls. To control its growth, make sure to prune the vines in spring. This also ensures lush foliage and fast production of flowers.
Another purple vine to consider is Wisteria, which yields gorgeous foliage and whose flowers turn yellow when autumn comes. This needs rich soil and plenty of sunlight. It also requires regular pruning to ensure that its vines do not overtake the rest of your outdoor space. While it may be invasive, Wisteria is hard to resist with its scented blooms in lovely lavender shade.
9. Campanulaceae
There are different bellflowers, but blue and purple shades are most common. The Campanulaceae family is known among pollinators for its cup- or bell-shaped flowers. Canterbury bells are also known as Campanula medium. They are a popular biennial plant commonly used in flower arrangements and honey-making. They enjoy cool zones and thrive in well-drained soil. They grow best in containers or borders. Similar to other varieties within the Campanulaceae family, Canterbury bells propagate easily through their seeds starting in early summer or late spring.
Here are some types of bellflowers:
- Dalmatian bellflower
- Canterbury bells
- Tussock bellflower
- Peach-leaved bellflower
- Serbian bellflower
Bellflower is another type within the Campanulaceae family that blooms in a light purple shade. This type comes in varying sizes and reaches up to 3 feet in height. Its signature bell-shaped blooms from late spring up to summer make them perfect for cottage or rock gardens. Heliotrope is also a favorite for cottage gardens with shrub-like lavender and oval-shaped leaves.
Aside from its gorgeous clusters, this yields a lovely scent that many gardeners compare with vanilla’s smell. If you plan to grow a cutting garden, then Gladioulous is a great option. This classic perennial features tall spikes and large blooms that look great in arrangements. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this can produce until early autumn. It is ideal for growing this in rows for easy harvesting.
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10. Honeywort
Honeywort is a drought-tolerant type that grows in different soil conditions and flourishes in full sun. It provides a nice contrast with its green leaves and bell-shaped blooms. Its leaves are thick and dominantly green with a hint of grayish tone. This self-seeding plant can be grown in containers and as nice fillers for your ornamental borders.
| Name | Outsidepride Cerinthe Major Honeywort Plant |
| # of seeds | 50 |
| Expected Blooming Period | Spring |
| Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
| Item Weight | 0.32 ounces |
| Package Dimensions | 4.09 x 2.99 x 0.12 inches |
Pros
- You’ll get the full satisfaction from seeing them grow from seed.
- You can grow a lot with the number of seeds you receive.
- They’re usually not available at Home Depot.
- A lot of the ones we received sprouted.
Cons
- It takes longer before you’ll see them
- Some seeds may not sprout.
- Some buyers seem to have received the wrong seeds.
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Another one with prominently green leaves is Anise, which blooms in spring. This option is also called Anise Hyssop. It is a magnet for butterflies and beetles. It can be used in herb gardens and as ornamentals – try it out!
A spring-blooming one, Lungwort makes for a nice ground cover. While it is a low-growing option, its stalks may reach 18 inches. This stands out with its lung-shaped leaves, thereby giving it its name. Lungwort is typically grown in pots during spring and thrives in partial to full shade and moist soil.
11. Vinca
While perennials grow back every spring, some only last for a single growing season. These are called annuals. Their leaves, stems, and roots die out after one cycle. There are many examples of annuals with a pop that can be very useful in your landscape.
If you cannot afford to spend much of your time tending your garden, then you may consider growing Vinca. These low-maintenance blooms tolerate drought, prefer full sun, and easily grow wherever you plant them. Its flowers have five soft-lavender petals with a yellow or white center and look nice in containers or hanging baskets. You can also use Vinca for rock gardens or borders and add instant color to your outdoor space.
Another example in this category is Annual Purple Larkspur, a tall and elegant plant with spiky blooms. This thrives in moist soil and may produce yearly through self-seeding. It grows between spring and summer and grows up to 4 feet.
Lobelia is also an ideal option to grow if you are looking for low-maintenance blooms. It produces from summer until the first frost and prefers rich soil. Its blooms feature a violet-blue shade, though other white and pinkish-red varieties can be found. There are many types of Lobelias, and not all of them can be cultivated in a home garden setup. As the most common variety, violet-blue Lobelias are often used on borders or ground covers.
12. Foxglove or Digitalis
As the name implies, biennials need two years to finish their life cycle. Ones in this category develop their leaves and strengthen their roots during the first season. They stay dormant for a few months, particularly during the colder season. At that time, they start showing off their lovely blooms in the second year. After this, they die.
There are many biennial options to choose from, depending on your purpose. One favorite choice is Foxglove or Digitalis, a strikingly tall plant with bell-shaped flowers. Other types of Foxgloves are considered perennials, but most grow and die within the two-year window of biennial plants.
Its stems may grow as high as 6 feet, making this a nice background against your flower beds. Aside from its height, one noticeable feature of Foxgloves is its bell- or trumpet-shaped flowers. They come in purple and pink. You can also find them growing in red or yellow clusters. This prefers full sun, although it does not mind a little bit of shade.
Also known as the Money Plant, Honesty is another biennial featuring charming blooms. It earned its nickname due to its sought-after seed pods, often preserved and used in dried arrangements. Honesty prefers well-drained soil and thrives in partial shade. Its dainty-looking flowers will look lovely beside bulb-shaped blooms like tulips.
If you are looking for ones that produce scented blooms, then Matthiola Incana is a great choice. Coming from the Mustard family, this is popular in cottage gardens with narrow leaves and fragrant flowers. It is relatively short and reaches only 1 to 3 feet in height. Matthiola Incana blooms in various colors, including lavender and white. Lookout, and you’ll also see them in yellow and pink.
13. Tradescantia Pallida
Tradescantia Pallida is perhaps the most popular perennial that takes a heart shape. It is no wonder that this is nicknamed Purple Heart. Occasionally, gardeners also refer to it as “Moses in the Basket.” Tradescantia Pallida’s flowers grow on the end of its fleshy stems and come in a pale shade. It perfectly contrasts its long and dark leaves. This low-growing option is often used as a ground cover or bedding. It can also be placed in baskets or hanging pots and be an instant welcome accent on your porch.
Another heart-shaped and equally stunning purple color is Blackcurrant Swirl Moonflower, often called Datura or Devil’s Trumpet. It’s earned that name because of its swirling trumpet flowers. Datura has heart-shaped petals that bloom in pale to deep purple shade and grow up to 5 feet, making this ideal for landscaping.
This type thrives in alkaline or neutral soil and may sometimes attract pests like spider mites or whiteflies. Once your Datura is ready to be transplanted, provide up to 4 feet of spacing between each one. Make sure to avoid damaging its roots. One word of caution, though. This may look delicate and mysterious, but it is highly poisonous. Make sure to cultivate it away from children and pets.
Want to keep reading? You can also find purple Sansevierias, although they are very rare. Please also check out our resources on engine-driven welders and gauge wire.
We hope you found the flowers and flowering plants that fit your needs! We didn’t include orchids here, although they’re popular. Asters are another popular option. We hope this list helped you. Here are more options to look into:
- Balloon Flower
- Magenta
- Catmint
- Bell Heather
- Bittersweet Nighshade
- Hydrangeas
- Alpine Betony
- Calla Lillies
- Anemones
- China Aster
- Hyacinth
- Dwarf Iris
What Are Perennials?
Perennial plants live on for multiple growing cycles. Its roots often die or go dormant during winter and regrow in spring. It typically lasts more than two years and is easier to maintain as you only need to plant it once.
One popular purple perennial is Bears Breech, characterized by its tall flowers and glossy leaves. This perennial is sometimes grouped with the so-called architectural plants as it is widely used as a motif. Its blooms last throughout summer and come in a faded purple shade.
But aside from its exquisite blooms, this plant is prized for its large and lobed leaves. They were widely used in ancient art, particularly in the Greek and Roman period. Bears Breech does not require frequent watering and is not vulnerable to disease issues or pets. However, snails may visit feast on the foliage from time to time.
Native to North America, Blazing Star or Gayfeather is another type of perennial that exudes an ornamental allure. It features tall stalks of lavender that gracefully sway with the wind during summer. It attracts butterflies and bees, and sometimes deer! Resembling Blazing Star’s spiky blooms, Veronicas are more blue than purple. It creates an extra dimension to your landscape.
These carefree perennials grow in different soil types and thrive in full sun. There are various types of Veronicas, depending on their size and form. The small ones are ideal in containers or rock gardens. At the same time, the taller variety looks best in borders and other flowers.
