Hey, I’m Ferb Vu. Over the years, I’ve grown a bunch of tropical plants, but Purple Tropical Plant varieties always grab my attention. Their rich, vibrant colors add drama to any indoor or outdoor garden. If you’re curious about them or how they stack up against other tropical plants, I’ve put together this FAQ based on my experience and what I’ve learned along the way.
What Exactly Is a Purple Tropical Plant?
When I say Purple Tropical Plant, I’m referring to any tropical plant species that display purple foliage or blooms. These include popular types like Tradescantia Pallida (Purple Heart), Colocasia ‘Black Magic’, Strobilanthes dyerianus (Persian Shield), and certain cultivars of Calathea or Cordyline.
The key is the deep purple hues in leaves or flowers, which create a striking contrast against the typical green foliage. These plants thrive in warm, humid environments, so they’re perfect for tropical climates or indoor settings that mimic those conditions.
How Do Purple Tropical Plants Compare to Green Tropical Plants?
From my perspective, the main difference is in visual impact. Purple Tropical Plants make a bolder statement than most green tropical plants. For example, a Purple Heart (Tradescantia Pallida) can serve as a fantastic groundcover or accent plant because of its intense color and trailing habit, whereas green tropical plants often blend into the background more.
But it’s not just about looks. Purple foliage often indicates higher anthocyanin content, which can offer some protection from UV light and pests. I’ve noticed my purple plants seem a bit more resilient in bright sunlight compared to some of my greener tropicals. That said, many green tropical plants like Monstera or Philodendron have their own unique textures and shapes that purple plants don’t match.
Are Purple Tropical Plants Hard to Care For?
Honestly, some are more forgiving than others. My experience with Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus) taught me that it loves humidity and indirect light but can sulk if it gets too dry or too much direct sun. On the other hand, Tradescantia Pallida is very hardy — I’ve seen it bounce back after neglect.
Generally, Purple Tropical Plants need:
- Warm temperatures (usually 65°F+)
- Moderate to high humidity
- Indirect, bright light (too much direct sun can bleach their colors)
- Regular watering but well-drained soil to avoid root rot
Compared to green tropical plants like Calathea, which can be fussy about watering and humidity, some purple varieties are easier to maintain.
Can Purple Tropical Plants Be Grown Indoors?
Absolutely. I grow several purple tropical plants inside my home. The key is giving them enough light without scorching their leaves. A bright room with filtered sunlight is ideal.
For example, my Purple Heart thrives near a window with morning sun. I also have a Purple Waffle Plant (Hemigraphis alternata) under my grow lights, and it’s doing great. Purple foliage adds a splash of color indoors, breaking the monotony of mostly green houseplants.
One thing I’ve learned: humidity matters indoors too. A small humidifier or pebble tray with water helps keep purple tropical plants happy.
How Do Purple Tropical Plants Compare to Other Colorful Tropical Plants?
Tropical plants come in all colors—reds, yellows, pinks—but purple plants have a unique vibe. Compared to red-leafed plants like Croton or Ti plants, purple tropical plants feel cooler and often more mysterious.
For instance, the Cordyline ‘Purple Majesty’ has stunning deep purple leaves that can look almost black in low light, which contrasts nicely with bright red Cordylines I’ve grown.
Compared to variegated plants like Caladium or Coleus, purple tropical plants tend to have more solid, bold color blocks instead of patterns or splashes.
Are There Any Common Issues With Purple Tropical Plants?
Yes, just like any plant, purple tropical plants have their quirks. Here are some issues I’ve run into:
- Fading or dulling color: If your purple leaves turn green or pale, it usually means not enough light.
- Leaf scorch: Too much direct sun can cause brown or bleached patches.
- Pests: Purple tropical plants can attract spider mites and aphids, especially if indoor humidity is low.
- Dropping leaves: This can happen if the plant experiences stress from cold drafts, inconsistent watering, or low humidity.
To keep your purple tropical plants vibrant, keep an eye on light, water, and humidity. Regular misting helps, especially for indoor plants.
Can Purple Tropical Plants Be Propagated Easily?
In my experience, yes. Many purple tropical plants propagate well from cuttings or division. For example:
- Tradescantia Pallida roots quickly in water or soil.
- Persian Shield can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer.
- Some purple cultivars of Calathea can be divided carefully during repotting.
Propagation is a great way to multiply your collection without spending much.
What Are Some Good Companion Plants for Purple Tropical Plants?
I like pairing purple tropical plants with green or variegated foliage to create contrast and texture. Some of my favorite companions include:
- Ferns: Their fine texture balances bold purple leaves.
- Hostas: Variegated or solid green hostas complement purple foliage nicely.
- Philodendrons or Monsteras: Their large green leaves set off purple plants well.
- Orchids: Their delicate blooms contrast beautifully with tropical leaves.
Grouping plants with similar light and humidity needs is key.
Where Can I Buy Purple Tropical Plants?
I usually find purple tropical plants at specialty nurseries or online plant shops. Local nurseries sometimes stock popular varieties like Tradescantia or Persian Shield. For rarer species or cultivars, I’ve used online sources like Etsy or dedicated tropical plant retailers.
If you’re new to purple tropical plants, I recommend starting with hardy ones like Tradescantia or Purple Heart—they’re widely available and easy to grow.
Final Thoughts on Purple Tropical Plants
Purple Tropical Plants add drama and elegance to any plant collection. They bring a burst of color that is rare and eye-catching. While they need a bit of attention to light and humidity, their striking hues make it worthwhile. Whether indoors or outdoors, they stand out as conversation starters and focal points.
For me, purple tropical plants are a fun way to experiment with color and texture. I love seeing their vibrant leaves catch the light and change shades throughout the day.
If i die, water my plants!
