Purple plants are not only beautiful but also have a long history of being linked with royalty. If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your home, adding a few purple plants is the way to do it. There are many types of plants that have purple foliage, each of which has its own unique features and will add color and structure to your home landscape.
The Persian shield plant is a great option if you’re looking for a plant that is both easy to care for and eye-catching. The leaves of this plant are large and glossy, and they can range in color from deep purple to almost silver. The Persian shield plant is an annual, so it will need to be replanted each year.
If you’re looking for a plant that is a little more unusual, the oyster plant may be the one for you. The leaves of this plant are shaped like oyster shells, and they are a deep purple color. The oyster plant is native to South America and thrives in humid conditions.
Ornamental cabbages are another type of purple plant that makes a great addition to any home landscape. These plants have thick, purple leaves that form a rosette shape. Ornamental cabbages are annuals, so they will need to be replanted each year.
Prayer plants are interesting because their leaves actually fold up at night, as if they were praying. The leaves of prayer plants are usually green with purple stripes running through them. These plants are native to tropical regions and prefer high humidity levels.
The rubber tree plant is another option for those looking for a purple foliage plant. The leaves of this plant are large and provide good coverage. Rubber tree plants can get quite large, so make sure you have enough space before planting one.
Last but not least, the Rex begonia is a beautiful option for those who want purple-leaved plants in their landscape. The leaves of this plant are large and have different shades of purple on them. Rex begonias prefer indirect sunlight and should be protected from the hot afternoon sun.
There are many types of purple plants that can add beauty and elegance to your home landscape. Each type of plant has its own unique set of features, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase. With proper care, these plants will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.
Introduction
Plants with purple and green leaves are beautiful and add color and structure to your home. These colors are complementary, so they create a pleasing contrast. In addition, purple and green leaves often have different textures, which can add interest to your decor.
For example, you might pair a plant with smooth, glossy leaves with one that has fuzzy or ruffled leaves. Or you might choose a plant with large leaves and another with small leaves. Plants with purple and green leaves also come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one to fit your space.
Whether you prefer a compact plant for your windowsill or a towering tree for your living room, there’s a purple and green plant out there that’s perfect for you.
Why Purple & Green Plants Are So Special
For many centuries, purple has been associated with nobility and royalty. In ancient times, the color was difficult to produce, and only those with great wealth could afford to wear it. Today, purple remains a popular color for luxurious items like clothing and jewelry.
And while you might not be able to turn your whole yard purple, adding a touch of this regal color to your landscape can make it feel more refined and elegant.
One way to do this is to plant purple flowers near the entrance to your home. You could also add a few lavender plants to your garden, or paint your front door in a deep shade of violet. Whether you go big or small, a little bit of purple can go a long way in giving your landscape a regal makeover.
Persian Shield
The Persian shield plant, also known by its botanical name of trobilanthes dyerianus, is a striking leafy plant that is known for its vibrant colors and beautiful silver, purple, and green veins. If you are looking to add a pop of color to your indoor or outdoor space, the Persian shield plant is a great option!
Growth Habits of Persian Shield Plants
Persian shield plants are typically grown as annuals in most parts of the country. However, if you live in zones 9-11, your plant may be able to withstand the winter weather and come back year after year! These plants typically grow to be 2-3 feet tall with a 2-foot spread. For a more bushy plant, squeeze the buds on the stems to encourage branching.
Sunlight and Watering Needs for Persian Shield Plants
Persian shield plants prefer bright light but should be protected from direct afternoon sun. When watering your plant, be sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out in between waterings. If you are growing your plant indoors, place it near a sunny window.
Pruning and Fertilizing Needs for Persian shield Plants
No pruning is necessary for these plants, but you can do so if you want to control the size or shape of your plant. Fertilize your Persian shield plant once per month using a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Be sure not to overfertilize as this can damage the roots of the plant.
Oyster Plant
The oyster plant’s large, thick clumps of spear-shaped leaves make it an ideal border plant or ground cover. With purple leaves and stripes of purple and green, the oyster plant is a beautiful addition to any garden. Keep reading to learn how to plant and care for your oyster plant.
Planting Your Oyster Plant
Oyster plants can be planted in either full sun or partial shade. When planting, be sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball. Once the hole is dug, mix in some compost or manure to loosening the soil. This will help your oyster plant roots establish themselves more easily. Gently place the root ball in the hole and fill it in with soil, firm gently. Water your oyster plant well immediately after planting.
Caring for Your Oyster Plant
Oyster plants are relatively low-maintenance once they are established. Be sure to water regularly during the first growing season to help the roots establish themselves. Once your oyster plant is established, it will be tolerant of both drought and flooding. Fertilize your oyster plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Apply according to package directions.
Be sure to divide your oyster plant every 3-4 years to keep it healthy and vigorous. To divide, simply dig up the entire plant and divide the root ball into smaller sections using a sharp knife or spade. Replant each section immediately in a prepared bed. Water well immediately after replanting.
Ornamental Cabbage
With its frilly leaves and fascinating colors, the ornamental cabbage is a beautiful border or accent plant. This hardy plant is easy to grow and is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, making it a perfect choice for gardeners in temperate, subtropical, and even tropical climates. Read on to learn more about this captivating plant.
Ornamental Cabbage 101
Ornamental cabbage is a member of the Brassica oleracea species, which also includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, and kohlrabi. Unlike its edible cousins, ornamental cabbage grows in loose rosettes rather than compact crowns. And while it shares the same general shape as traditional cabbage, it typically only reaches one foot in height and 18 inches in width.
This striking plant is most often found in shades of green, purple-red, and white; however, some varieties also boast solid purple-blue leaves. Ornamental cabbage is best grown in full sun and thrives in temperatures that are 60 degrees Fahrenheit or below. In fact, the cooler the temperature, the more vibrant the colors of the leaves will be.
Caring for Your Ornamental Cabbage Plant
Ornamental cabbage is relatively easy to care for. When planting your cabbage starts, be sure to space them 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper growth. Water your plants regularly, providing about an inch of water per week.If you live in an area with high winds, you may want to stake your plants to prevent them from toppling over.
As fall approaches and temperatures start to cool down, your ornamental cabbage plants will begin to bolt—that is, they will produce flowers and seed heads. Once this happens, the leaves will begin to yellow and wilt. While this signals the end of the plant’s life cycle, you can prolong its beauty by removing the flower heads as soon as they appear. Doing so will allow the plant to continue putting its energy into producing lush, colorful leaves rather than flowers and seeds.
Purple Oxalis
The Purple Oxalis is a beautiful plant that is native to Brazil. It features distinctive pinwheel-shaped leaves as well as a plethora of starry flowers along its branches. Certain cultivars produce purple leaves or leaves with darker accents on the underside. The Purple Oxalis is a great addition to any garden and is sure to add a splash of color!
The History of the Purple Oxalis
The Purple Oxalis is native to Brazil and was first discovered in the early 1800s. It was brought to Europe in 1828 by Dutch horticulturist, Willem Hendrik de Jonge. The plant quickly became a popular addition to gardens across Europe and North America. Today, Purple Oxalis is widely available and can be found in most nurseries and garden centers.
How to Care for Your Purple Oxalis
The Purple Oxalis is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and should be fertilized every 2 weeks starting from the beginning of spring. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. When watering, be sure to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause them to brown. If you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that will add color and interest to your garden, the Purple Oxalis is a great option!
Coleus
The Coleus plant is a beautiful and vibrant addition to any home or garden. With its wide range of colors and sizes, there is a Coleus plant perfect for any space. The bright hues of Coleus are due to the fact that they need plenty of sunlight to thrive. The more light they receive, the brighter their colors will be. Let’s learn a little more about this amazing plant.
Origin of the Coleus Plant
The Coleus plant is native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. It is a member of the mint family and has been used medicinally for centuries. In recent years, Coleus has become a popular houseplant because of its easy care requirements and vibrant colors.
Coleus Care Tips
Coleus plants are relatively easy to care for. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Coleus plants can be cultivated indoors or outdoors. If you are growing your Coleus plant indoors, make sure to place it in a sunny spot near a window. Outdoors, Coleus plants should be planted in an area that receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Water your Coleus plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. During the winter months, you can cut back on watering slightly as Coleus plants enter a semi-dormant state. Fertilize your Coleus plant every 2-4 weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer or slow-release pellets.
Common Pests and Diseases
Coleus plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they can occasionally be affected by aphids, whiteflies, or mealybugs. If you notice any pests on your Coleus plant, rinse them off with water or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution. Diseases such as root rot or powdery mildew can also affect Coleus plants if they are overwatered or grown in poorly drained soil.
Prayer Plant
The Prayer Plant, botanical name Maranta leuconeura, is a beautiful houseplant that is loved for its striking foliage. The leaves of the plant are mottled in shades of purple, lime, bronze, copper, and bronze. The Prayer Plant thrives in moist soil that is well-drained.
Prayer Plant Care Tips
Because the Prayer Plant prefers moist soil, it is important to water it on a regular basis. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out between watering. The Prayer Plant also benefits from being misted with water occasionally. Be sure to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause them to brown.
Prayer Plants do best in bright indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant. If your home does not get a lot of natural light, you can grow your Prayer Plant under fluorescent lights.
Fertilize your Prayer Plant every other month during the growing season with a half-strength solution of liquid fertilizer. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package. During the winter months, you can reduce fertilizing to once a month.
Prayer Plants are not susceptible to many pests or diseases, but they can be attacked by mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small pests that suck the sap out of plants. They appear as white cottony masses on the stems and leaves of plants. Spider mites are tiny spider-like pests that spin webs on plants. They cause leaves to turn yellow and eventually drop off. Both mealybugs and spider mites can be controlled with regular applications of an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label when using any insecticide products.
