On the hunt for some lovely purple perennial blooms to spice up your garden this year? Choosing the perfect mix of colors for your flowerbed is a key decision for many gardeners, especially with the abundance of choices out there. In this piece, we highlight our top picks for purple perennial flowers to liven up your garden this season.
Selecting the perfect hues for your garden is a vital aspect of creating the right ambiance. Purple is a color that is often linked to luxury and regality. Depending on the tone, purple can also symbolize spirituality or romance. By incorporating some purple blooms into your garden, you can introduce bursts of color that beautifully complement other shades in your outdoor space. Opting for perennial purple flowers means you can enjoy their beauty year after year.
Pale purple blossoms can bring about feelings of tranquility, while bold pink-purple shades can add a touch of excitement. When choosing which plants to add to your garden, consider the various shades available and where they would fit best in your design.
With a wide range of shapes, sizes, and scents, purple perennials offer a diverse selection to choose from. Fortunately, there are numerous options to pick from. Below, we highlight some of our favorite purple perennials to enhance your garden this season!
Allium
Allium plants, which belong to the onion family, are known for their unique flower heads comprised of clusters of florets. These flowers come in a variety of shapes, from rounded to cascading, and are available in a range of vibrant colors, including shades of purple. Alliums can vary in height, with some growing just a few inches tall while others may reach several feet in height. The flowers of these plants typically bloom on stalks with minimal foliage.
Taking care of Alliums is a breeze as long as they are planted in well-drained soil and receive plenty of sunlight. These plants do not require frequent watering, weeding, or fertilizing, as they can usually rely on rainfall for water. However, during dry periods, it may be necessary to give them some extra hydration. Adding organic mulch to the soil can also help promote the overall health of your Allium flowers.
Another popular plant to consider adding to your garden is Anise Hyssop, which is known for its aromatic leaves and beautiful purple blooms.
The herbaceous perennial known as Anise, also called blue giant gossip or fragrant giant hyssop, boasts beautiful bluish-purple flowers with a delightful fragrance that often reminds gardeners of licorice or tarragon. This fragrant plant is not only pleasing to the senses but also edible, offering a unique licorice flavor and the potential to be used as an herbal supplement. In addition to its aromatic appeal, the sweet nectar of Anise flowers attracts pollinating insects like bees and is a favorite of deer-resistant plants. Its blooms are also known to attract graceful hummingbirds.
To ensure the optimal health of your Anise plant, provide it with well-drained alkaline soil with a pH level of approximately 6.5. Plant Anise seeds in a clean, weed-free bed for best results. Initially, regular watering is key, but once established, these plants are quite resilient to drought.
African Daisy, also known as Anise, is a delightful herbaceous perennial with its fragrant licorice-scented flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds and other pollinators. Ensure it has well-drained alkaline soil with regular watering, and you’ll enjoy its beauty and fragrance for years to come.
African Daisies are perennial plants that stay green all year round and produce beautiful lavender flowers. These purple blooms can also have a touch of white, pink, or peach mixed in, depending on the variety and time of year. Their vibrant colors will brighten up your garden from summer to fall once they are fully grown.
When African Daisies are young, they require frequent watering, but once they have matured, they can withstand dry spells. However, giving them a little water during extended periods of drought can be beneficial. It’s important not to overwater these plants, as they are susceptible to root rot if they get too much water.
Check out our article on 25 unique and rare succulents and cacti to add to your plant collection!
The Bearded Iris is known for its striking colors, such as royal purple, and intricate patterns on each petal. Its name comes from the fuzzy “beards” that grow on the falls of the flower. With numerous hybrids, many variations of this species differ from the typical Iris germanica. These perennials are popular with butterflies and hummingbirds and are also resistant to deer.
For optimal growth, Bearded Iris should be planted in well-drained, humus-rich soil with plenty of sunlight, although they can also tolerate partial shade. It is important to keep the soil moist but not overwatered. Once established, these plants can withstand periods of drought. To prevent overcrowding, it is recommended to divide Bearded Iris plants every three to four years.
Bluebonnet
Bluebonnets, a favorite among gardeners, are the result of a mix between lupines. These plants boast vibrant clusters of blueish-purple flowers alongside light green foliage. One of the top perks of bluebonnets is their array of bright colors and their quick growth.
To thrive, lupines need ample sunlight, ideally soaking up at least six hours of sun daily. While they can handle some shade, their flowers won’t bloom as beautifully. A bit of afternoon shade might help in hot climates. Bluebonnets are tough when it comes to dry conditions and don’t appreciate excess moisture – watering once a week should do the trick.
Catmint is a perennial plant that is a breeze to cultivate and produces lovely flower clusters. These blooms can be found in various hues, including a mix of colors. In addition to attracting butterflies, Catmint is also popular with hummingbirds. These plants are an excellent choice for any garden because of their beauty and ability to thrive in tough environments.
For the best results, Catmint should be planted in an area with full sun. While it can tolerate some shade, it may not bloom as abundantly. This plant isn’t too particular about soil quality, as long as it drains well. It prefers to be watered regularly, either by you or through natural rainfall. It’s important to note that Catmint can be invasive in specific regions, so it’s best to check the regulations in your area before planting.
Catmint, a member of the mint family, is a perennial herb that lives up to its name by being a favorite among cats. This plant is not only easy to cultivate but is also resistant to pests and deer. Its fast growth and ability to thrive in different environments make it a popular choice for gardeners. Plant Catmint from spring to fall for the best results.
The flowers and leaves of Catmint can be used to brew a soothing tea that provides relief from coughs, congestion, and even menstrual cramps. Cats are also drawn to this herb, experiencing similar effects to catnip. Its sweet, minty flavor adds an appealing touch to any tea it is used in.
In terms of care, Catmint thrives in full sun but can also handle partial shade. It prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil, although certain varieties can adapt to different soil types. While Catmints need regular watering until established, they are quite resilient and can endure drought once mature.
Chrysanthemums are another favorite among gardeners.
Known as the mums, chrysanthemums are popular flowers with vibrant clustered petals that are a staple in many households during the autumn and winter months. While you can easily find them in grocery stores in full bloom, planting them in the spring can prolong their lifespan. These plants can grow up to 3 feet tall and serve as great filler plants for adding a pop of color in the fall. To ensure they thrive, chrysanthemums require plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Be sure to keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. When choosing mums for your home, opt for those with unopened buds to enjoy continuous blooming throughout the season.
Clematis is a stunning perennial plant that can add a pop of color to your garden. The flowers of the Clematis can grow to an impressive 8 inches in size, making them quite the showstopper. With over 300 species to choose from, this plant is a popular choice for gardeners.
Clematis is known as a “repeat bloomer,” with the potential to bloom multiple times throughout the year. Whether it’s July or September, you may be in for a beautiful surprise. Remember that if you live in a cooler climate, Clematis thrives in full sun but prefers shaded roots. In hotter regions, a bit of shade can help preserve the vibrant hues of the flowers. Make sure to keep the soil well-drained and moist for these perennials to thrive.
Echinacea
Many gardeners love including coneflowers in their gardens due to their hardiness and vibrant colors. These flowers are a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, with some birds even snacking on their seeds. Coneflowers bloom early in the spring, bringing a burst of color to any garden.
These resilient flowers can thrive in different temperature conditions, but they don’t fare well in humid or rainy climates. They can grow in various soil types as long as the soil isn’t too waterlogged. Coneflowers can handle drought conditions, but it’s best to water them regularly until they are fully established. Once mature, Echinaceas only need extra watering during droughts.
Another popular plant to consider adding to your garden is Coral Bells.
There are numerous types of Coral Bells, also known as Heuchera, each showcasing flowers in the shape of bells and coming in various colors. While typically having green leaves, some variations boast purple, pink, gold, and other vibrant leaf hues. These plants attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding a touch of natural beauty to your outdoor space.
To ensure optimal growth, Heuchera thrives best in partial shade, especially in warmer climates where excessive sun exposure can dull their vivid colors. It is recommended to plant Coral Bells in slightly acidic, humus-rich soil that is well-drained, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot. Regular watering and maintaining evenly moist soil are essential for the health and vibrancy of these plants.