The Beauty of Purple Indoor Plants

Purple plants are often associated with flowers, but did you know that many indoor plants also boast beautiful purple leaves? If you’re looking to add some vibrant color to your indoor space, we’ve got you covered with a selection of 15 stunning purple houseplants. Not only are these plants visually appealing, but we’ll also provide you with care tips to ensure your plants thrive.

1. The Enchanting Purple Heart Plant

Our first plant is the purple heart plant (Tradescantia pallida), which features purple flowers and leaves. This resilient houseplant hails from northeast Mexico and can be hung in a basket, planted outside, or grown in a large indoor pot. For optimum growth, make sure your purple heart plant receives plenty of sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil. Regular trims will help keep the plant small and compact.

2. The Alluring Purple Shamrock Plant

Purple shamrock plants (Oxalis triangularis) have distinct shamrock-shaped leaves that close up at night and unfurl in the morning. While they may not bring you luck, these plants will certainly add color and movement to your indoor garden. Keep your purple shamrock plant as a houseplant with loamy soil and allow it to dry out between waterings.

3. The Fascinating Purple Waffle Plant

Don’t let its name make your stomach growl – the purple waffle plant (Hemigraphis alternata) is a delightful addition to any indoor garden. With its curly purple leaves that develop a metallic sheen, this plant is reminiscent of ivy and can be grown in hanging baskets, window boxes, or as ground cover outside. The best part? The purple waffle plant is one of the easiest purple houseplants to care for.

4. The Culinary Delight: Purple Basil

If you’re looking for an edible purple plant, look no further than purple basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Dark Opal’). This dark purple variety of common basil adds a spicy kick to your dishes. Plant it in full sun and well-drained soil, but be prepared for potential pest problems due to its fragrant nature. The slower growth of purple basil is well worth the spicy taste and aromatic fragrance.

5. The Ornamental Purple Potato Vine

For a touch of whimsy in your indoor garden, consider the purple potato vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘blackie’). Although primarily ornamental, this vine is edible, although the seeds are toxic. It thrives in hanging pots but be aware that it is susceptible to fungal infections.

6. The Exquisite Purple Passion Plant

The purple passion plant (Gynura aurantiaca), also known as the purple passion vine or velvet plant, boasts fine purple hairs on its leaves, giving it a striking appearance. This soft and velvety plant thrives as a hanging plant and should be kept away from harsh, direct sunlight.

7. The Stunning Persian Shield Plant

With its striking purple leaves, the Persian Shield plant (Strobilanthes dyerianus) is a favorite among purple houseplant enthusiasts. While it thrives as a shrub outdoors, it also makes a beautiful centerpiece in an ornamental pot indoors. Keep in mind that the Persian Shield plant prefers hot and humid environments, and its quilted leaves can grow up to 8 inches long, making a bold statement.

8. The Eye-Catching Wandering Jew Plant

The Wandering Jew plant (Tradescantia zebrina) is named for its striped purple leaves. This trailing plant is perfect for hanging pots, but be mindful of providing the right amount of sunlight to maintain its vibrant purple coloring. In addition, each cutting of an inch plant can grow into a whole new plant, making it a popular gift among plant enthusiasts.

9. The Intriguing Moses-in-the-Cradle

Featuring vibrant purple undersides on its leaves, the Moses-in-the-Cradle plant (Tradescantia spathacea) is a showstopper. This bromeliad variety is easy to grow and propagate, making it a popular choice for patio or indoor gardens.

10. The Captivating Ruby’s Necklace

Ruby’s necklace (Othonna capensis), also known as a String of Rubies, is a trailing succulent with reddish-purple “little pickles.” Keep this plant as a hanging plant or grow it outside to form a beautiful groundcover. Just be mindful not to overwater, as succulents thrive on low water requirements.

11. The Majestic Echeveria Purple Pearl

Echeveria elegans, also known as the Mexican rose, offers a purple variety known as the Purple Pearl. This versatile succulent can thrive in any pot and adds a touch of elegance to your collection. Consider using Mexican roses as centerpieces or as an artful touch on a bookshelf.

12. The Striking Begonia Rex

When it comes to houseplants with purple leaves, the Begonia rex-cultorum, or Begonia rex, is a standout choice. Its rich reddish-purple leaves make a bold statement, but they require careful maintenance. The Begonia rex prefers high humidity and a watering technique that keeps the soil moist but not saturated. Proper fertilization is also essential for optimal growth.

13. The Vibrant Coleus Black Dragon

The Coleus plant offers a world of color, and the “Black Dragon” variety features vibrant shades of pink and purple. These plants thrive in various conditions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces. With over 40 varieties to choose from, you can find a purple coleus that perfectly complements your environment.

14. The Unique Kalanchoe Humilis

The Kalanchoe humilis, or Tiger Stripes Kalanchoe, showcases stunning purple stripes when exposed to sunlight. As with other succulents, this plant is drought-resistant and low-maintenance. However, be cautious not to overwater, and remember to cut off the bloom and provide some rest during hibernation.

15. The Graceful Calathea Varieties

Many varieties of Calathea feature touches of purple. From deep purple undersides to pink and purple patterns, these prayer plants add a touch of elegance to any indoor space. Keep in mind that Calathea care varies depending on the variety, with bright but indirect light being crucial for their growth.

Purple Houseplants: A World of Possibilities

With this selection of purple houseplants, you have an abundance of options to bring vibrant color to your indoor space. Whether you prefer hanging plants or green varieties with striking purple accents, there’s a plant to suit your taste. Get inspired and create your own purple indoor garden – we can’t wait to see the beauty you’ll cultivate.