Are you looking for some beautiful purple perennial flowers to liven up your garden this year? Choosing the perfect color combination for your flower bed is a key decision for many gardeners, especially with the large number of options out there. In this article, 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 usually associated with luxury and royalty. Depending on the shade, purple can also symbolize spirituality or romance. By incorporating some purple flowers into your garden, you can introduce bursts of color that beautifully complement other hues in your outdoor space. Opting for perennial purple flowers means you can enjoy their beauty year after year.
Pale purple flowers can evoke feelings of tranquility, while bold pinks and purples can add a touch of excitement. When choosing which plants to add to your garden, consider the different shades available and where they would best fit into 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 choose 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 composed of clusters of little flowers. These flowers come in a variety of shapes, from rounded to cascading, and are available in a variety of vibrant colors, including shades of purple. Alliums can vary in height, with some growing only a few inches tall while others can reach several feet tall. The flowers of these plants usually bloom on stems with minimal foliage.
Caring for Alliums is very simple 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 rain for water. However, during dry periods, it may be necessary to give them a little extra hydration. Adding organic mulch to the soil can also help promote the overall health of Allium flowers.
Another popular plant you can consider adding to your garden is anise hyssop, known for its aromatic leaves and beautiful purple flowers.
The herbaceous perennial known as anise, also called blue giant gossip or fragrant giant hyssop, features 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 such as bees and is a favorite of deer-resistant plants. Its flowers are also known to attract graceful hummingbirds.
To ensure optimal health for 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 drought resistant.
The 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. Make sure it has well-drained alkaline soil with regular watering and you will enjoy its beauty and fragrance for many years.
African daisies are perennials that remain green year-round and produce beautiful lavender flowers. These purple flowers can also have a hint of white, pink, or peach mixed in, depending on the variety and time of year. Their vibrant colors will brighten 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 periods of drought. However, giving them some water during prolonged dry periods can be beneficial. It is important not to overwater these plants, as they are susceptible to root rot if they receive too much water.
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The bearded iris is known for its striking colors, such as royal purple, and its intricate patterns on each petal. Its name comes from the hairy “beards” that grow in the flower falls. 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 deer resistant.
For optimal growth, bearded iris should be planted in humus-rich, well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight, although it 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 avoid overcrowding, it is recommended to divide Bearded Iris plants every three to four years.
blue cap
Bluebonnets, a favorite among gardeners, are the result of a mixture of lupines. These plants feature vibrant clusters of bluish-purple flowers along with light green foliage. One of the main advantages of bluebonnets is their variety of bright colors and rapid growth.
To thrive, lupins need plenty of sunlight, ideally getting at least six hours of sun a day. While they can handle some shade, their flowers will not bloom as beautifully. Some afternoon shade might help in hot weather. Bluebonnets are hardy when it comes to dry conditions and do not appreciate excess moisture; watering once a week should be enough.
Catnip is a perennial plant that is very easy to grow and produces beautiful clusters of flowers. These flowers can be found in various shades, including a mix of colors. In addition to attracting butterflies, Catmint is also popular with hummingbirds. These plants are a great choice for any garden due to their beauty and ability to thrive in difficult environments.
For best results, Catmint should be planted in an area with full sun. While it can tolerate some shade, it may not bloom as profusely. This plant is not too demanding about soil quality, as long as it drains well. It prefers to be watered regularly, either by you or through natural rainfall. It is important to note that Catmint can be invasive in specific regions, so it is 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 grow but is also resistant to pests and deer. Its rapid growth and ability to thrive in different environments make it a popular choice for gardeners. Plant Catmint from spring to fall for best results.
Catmint flowers and leaves can be used to make a soothing tea that relieves coughs, congestion, and even menstrual cramps. Cats are also attracted to this herb and experience effects similar to those of catnip. Its sweet, minty flavor adds an appealing touch to any tea in which it is used.
In terms of care, Catmint thrives in full sun but also tolerates partial shade. It prefers well-drained soils rich in humus, although certain varieties can adapt to different types of soil. While Catmints need regular watering until they become established, they are quite hardy and can withstand drought once mature.
Chrysanthemums are another favorite among gardeners.
Known as chrysanthemums, chrysanthemums are popular flowers with vibrant clustered petals that are a staple in many homes during the fall and winter months. While you can easily find them in grocery stores in full bloom, planting them in spring can extend their lifespan. These plants can grow up to 3 feet tall and serve as great filler plants to add 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 chrysanthemums for your home, opt for those with unopened buds to enjoy continuous flowering throughout the season.
Clematis is a stunning perennial that can add a splash of color to your garden. Clematis flowers can grow to an impressive size of 8 inches, making them quite a spectacle. With over 300 species to choose from, this plant is a popular choice among gardeners. Clematis is known as a “repeat bloomer,” with the potential to bloom several times during the year. Whether it’s July or September, you might be in for a beautiful surprise. Remember that if you live in a cooler climate, Clematis thrives in full sun but prefers roots in shade. In warmer regions, a little shade can help preserve the vibrant hues of the flowers. Be sure to keep the soil well-drained and moist for these perennials to thrive. Echinacea
Many gardeners love to include coneflowers in their gardens because of their hardiness and vibrant colors. These flowers are favorites of bees, butterflies and hummingbirds, and some birds even eat their seeds. Coneflowers bloom in early spring and add a burst of color to any garden.
These hardy flowers can thrive in different temperature conditions, but do not do well in humid or rainy climates. They can grow in various types of soil as long as the soil is not too waterlogged. Coneflowers can withstand drought conditions, but it is best to water them regularly until they are fully established. Once mature, coneflowers only need additional watering during droughts.
Another popular plant you can consider adding to your garden is Coral Bells.
There are numerous types of Coral Bells, also known as Heuchera, each of which features bell-shaped flowers and comes in various colors. While they typically have green leaves, some variations feature purple, pink, gold, and other vibrant shades of leaves. 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 its vivid colors. It is recommended to plant Coral Bells in slightly acidic, humus-rich, well-drained soil, as soil that is too wet can cause root rot. Regular watering and maintaining evenly moist soil is essential for the health and vitality of these plants.