Buying Blue and Purple Perennials for Zone 8b

July 12, 2022 Post a Comment

Choosing the right colors for your garden is crucial to your design and the overall feeling you're going for. Purple is a color often associated with wealth and royalty. Depending on the shade, purple can also represent spirituality or romance. Adding some purple flowers to your garden can add pops of color because they can contrast well with many other colors in your garden. It's even better when the flowers are perennial, meaning they return year over year.

Light purple flowers can evoke feelings of peace and calmness, while vibrant pinkish-purples can add some drama Keep shades in mind when selecting which plants will work best in your garden and where you want to plant them.

Flowers come in different shapes, sizes, and fragrances, especially with our favorite purple perennials. Luckily, there are plenty of different options you can choose from. Below, we share our favorite purple perennials for your garden this season!

Allium

Scientific name: Allium

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Central Asia
Plant Size: 6 inches to 3 feet
Sun Exposure: Prefers Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-8

Allium plants come from the onion family and contain a flower head with clusters of florets. With Alliums, the flowers may have a rounded, oval, or cascading shape. Flowers come in a wide range of vibrantly colored blooms, including purple. You can also choose from various heights ranging from just a few inches to a few feet tall. Flowers on Alium plants often grow on the end of stalks with little to no leaves.

Alliums are easy to care for if you plant them in well-drained soil in an area with plenty of sunshine. You won't need to water, weed, or fertilize it often. Typically rainfall will take care of Allium's watering needs, but you may need to water your plants during a drought. Organic mulch can also enhance the health of your Allium flowers.

Anise Hyssop

Scientific name: Agastache foeniculum

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Northern Americas
Plant Size: 2 to 3 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-8

Anise, sometimes referred to as blue giant gossip or fragrant giant hyssop, is a herbaceous perennial with bluish-purple flowers that is very fragrant. Many gardeners relate the scent to licorice or tarragon. Anise is an edible plant with a licorice flavor and may be used as an herbal supplement. Flowers of Anise contain sweet nectar, attract pollinating insects, such as bees, and are deer-resistant. They are also well known to attract hummingbirds.

For the best health of your plant, use well-drained alkaline soil with a pH of around 6.5. Plant Anise seeds in a fresh and clean bed without any weeds or roots. Regular watering is necessary at first, and then these plants tend to be pretty drought-resistant.

African Daisy

Scientific name: Osteospermum

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: South Africa
Plant Size: 1-3 Feet Tall
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 10-11

African Daisies are evergreen perennials that produce rich lavender flowers. Depending on the time of year and type of flower, these stunning purple flowers will have a hint of white, pink, or peach faded into the petals. You can expect these perennials to bloom in the middle of summer, and after they are established, you can enjoy their vibrant colors spring through fall.

While African Daisies are young, they will need regular watering. After they're established, they can tolerate periods of drought. However, a little water can help during long dry periods. Avoid overwatering these plants as they are especially prone to root rot when watering them.

Bluebonnet

Scientific name: Lupinus

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Southern North America
Plant Size: 12-24 Inches
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-8

Bluebonnets are hybrids of lupines and are popular among gardeners for many reasons. These plants contain clusters of vibrant blueish-purple flowers with light green foliage. One main benefit of these flowers is their various bright colors and their fast-growing tendencies.

Lupines do best when they have plenty of sunshine and need at least six hours of it per day. Though they can tolerate partial shade, their flowers will not bloom as well. Some afternoon shade may be beneficial if you live in a hot climate. Bluebonnets are drought-tolerant and do not like excess moisture; watering once per week should be plenty.

Butterfly Bush

Scientific name: Buddleja

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Southern Africa
Plant Size: Up to 15 Feet Tall
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 5-9

Butterfly bush is a perennial that is simple to grow and produces stunning flower spikes. You can purchase these flowers in a variety of colors, including multicolor. Not only do Butterfly bushes attract butterflies, but hummingbirds like them as well. These perennials make great additions to just about any garden because they are both beautiful and can thrive in harsh conditions.

Butterfly bushes bloom best when planted in full sun. Though they can tolerate partial shade, they may not bloom as well. This plant isn't picky about soil conditions as long as it's well-drained. They prefer regular weekly watering, whether by you or rainfall. This plant can be considered invasive in certain states, so make sure to research your area.

Catmint

Scientific name: Nepeta

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Mediterranean
Plant Size: Up To 3 Feet Tall
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-8

Catmint is a perennial herb of the mint family as the name suggests. Catmint is easy to grow and is pretty pest-resistant and deer-resistant. This low growing perennial grows quickly and can thrive in most environments. You can grow Catmint anytime between spring to fall.

You can make tea from the flowers and leaves, which offers benefits such as relief from coughing, congestion, and even menstrual cramping. Cats are also attracted to Catmint, which has similar effects as catnip. Unsurprisingly, Catmint has a sweet, minty flavor.

Catmint prefers full sun; however, they do well with partial shade. They do best well-drained humus-rich soil, but some varieties can grow in various soil types. Until established, these plants will need plenty of water, but then Catmints can tolerate periods of drought.

Chrysanthemums

Scientific name: Chrysanthemum

Plant Type: Perennial (5-9), Annual
Geographic Origin: China
Plant Size: 1 to 3 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Partial to Full Sun
Plant Zone: Hardy in 5-9, Annual in others

Chrysanthemums, often referred to as mums, feature vibrant clusters of petals on each flower. Just about every household has Chrysanthemums during the fall and winter months. You can purchase them in most grocery stores when they are in full bloom. However, you can get more out of your mums by planting them in the spring.

Mums can grow to be 3 feet tall and make great filler plants to add color in autumn. Chrysanthemums need lots of sunshine and regular watering. Add enough water to make the soil moist, but be careful not to overwater them. If you do choose to purchase mums for your home, look for plants that have unopened buds so that they will bloom all season.

Clematis

Scientific name: Clematis

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: United States
Plant Size: Up to 30 Feet (vining)
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-9

Clematis is an eye-catching perennial that will liven up any garden. The flowers on this plant are large, reaching up to 8 inches in diameter. This perennial is considered a "repeat bloomer," meaning a young plant may bloom in both July and September. As a member of the Buttercup family, Clematis has over 300 species with various hybrids to choose from.

If you live in a cooler region, Clematis enjoys full sun, so long as you keep the roots shaded. In hotter regions, partially shaded is ideal for preventing the vibrant colors from fading. Well-drained soil works best for these perennials, and do your best to keep the soil moist.

Coneflower

Scientific name: Echinacea purpurea

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 1-3 Feet Tall
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 5-8

Coneflowers are hardy plants that just about every Gardner adds to their display. Each bloom features multiple tiny flowers that are rich in color. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds love Coneflowers, and some birds enjoy eating their seeds. These perennials bloom early in the spring, with plenty of color.

Coneflowers can withstand a variety of temperatures but do not do well in humid or rainy climates. These flowers can do well in various soil types, as long as it doesn't get too wet. Coneflowers can tolerate drought but do best with regular watering until they are established. Adult Echinaceas are only thirsty during periods of droughts.

Coral Bells

Scientific name: Heuchera

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 16 inches
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade
Plant Zone: 4-9

There are hundreds of varieties of Coral Bell, also known as Heuchera. These perennials feature flowers with a bell-like shape and range in colors. Traditionally, the leaves are green, but some varieties have purple, pink, gold, and other colored leaves. Butterflies and hummingbirds love Coral Bells, so you can expect to see a few flying around them.

Heuchera prefers partial shade in hotter regions; otherwise, the sun can diminish the bright colors. Plant Coral Bells in a slightly acidic, humus-rich, and well-drained soil. Soil that is too wet can be detrimental to Heuchera and may cause root rot. However, they appreciate regular watering and evenly moist soil.

Dahlia

Scientific name: Dahlia

Plant Type: Perennial (Zones 8-11); Annual
Geographic Origin: South America, Mexico
Plant Size: 2 feet to 7 feet
Sun Exposure: Partial to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-11

Dahlias are a favorite for many gardeners. Native to the south american region, these sun loving perennials flourish best in hardiness zones 8-11. They like plenty of sun, and want watered soil that's well drained. Because of their native environment, they need consistent watering in more arid climates to survive.

The dahila comes in many different sizes. Some can be as small as 2 feet high, while the taller varieties will range all the way up to 7 feet tall! There are over 20,000 varieties of dahlias, so there truly is something to pick for just about any gardener that wants to welcome them into their flower garden.

Dalmatian Bellflower

Scientific name: Campanula portenschlagiana

Plant Type: Perennial (zones 3-9), Annual
Geographic Origin: Europe
Plant Size: 6 Inches
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-9

This species gets its name from the Dalmatian Mountains in Croatia, where it is native. Dalmation Bellflowers are low-growing perennials that gardeners use for edging, filling in open spaces, and areas that allow the foliage to drape over retaining walls. Campanula portenschlagiana forms a mound of bright periwinkle-purple flowers underneath dark green leaves. You can expect blooms in spring up to fall.

These perennials prefer partial shade to full sun, depending on the heat index of the region. Its flowers are known to spread quickly when given weekly water and plenty of sunshine. Dalmation Bellflowers prefer well-drained moist soil, but be careful to avoid overwatering.

Daylily

Scientific name: Hemerocallis spp.

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Asia
Plant Size: 8 inches to 5 feet
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-9

Beginner gardeners to expert gardeners love adding Daylily flowers to their display. Daylily flowers aren't actually lilies despite its name, though they look somewhat similar. Some blooms contain multiple colors within their stunning petals. These perennials grow quickly, are drought and flood-tolerant, and can thrive in various sun and soil conditions.

Daylilies prefer full sun, at least six hours of sunlight per day. In hotter regions, some afternoon shade can be beneficial. Though these perennials can do well in most soil, they do best in a fertile loamy soil. Regular watering is necessary until they are established. Otherwise, they only need water during long drought periods.

False Aster

Scientific name: Boltonia

Plant Type: Perennial (Zones 4-9), Annual
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 3-6 Feet
Sun Exposure: Full to Part Sun
Plant Zone: 4-9

As the name suggests, False Aster closely resembles Aster flowers, though they are different species. These dainty perennials feature pale purple petals with bright yellow centers. Its leaves are grayish-green and have stems that are thin but sturdy. You can expect lots of blooming in late summer to early fall.

Plant False Aster in wet soil in full sun or partially shaded areas. However, Boltonia does best in wetter and sunnier conditions. It does well with most soils, as long as the soil has plenty of moisture. Though False Aster can spread quickly, it is considered to be non-invasive.

False Indigo

Scientific name: Baptisia australis

Plant Type: Perennial (zones 3-9), Annual
Geographic Origin: United States
Plant Size: 3 to 5 feet
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-9

False Indigo, also commonly called Wild Indigo, is a bushy perennial featuring long upright indigo flowers. Though the individual flowers are dainty, this plant is an eye-catching addition to any garden. After the risk of frost, plant False Indigo in the spring has passed. It's important to note that Baptista australis plants are toxic to humans and animals.

Plant False Indigo in moderately-drained soil when it's young; dry soil types are fine after it's established. One inch of water a few times a month is best in the first year, but then False Indigo can tolerate some drought periods. Without the full sun, this plant will begin to droop and increase fungal disease risk.

Garden Phlox

Scientific name: Phlox paniculata

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 2 to 4 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Partial to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-8

Garden Phlox is a tall plant that is a part of the Polemoniaceae family. Its cluster of blooms are bursting with color and have a mild fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbird. These light or dark purple perennial flowers need little care, making them popular. They have hardy stems that can get up to 4 feet tall, so gardeners who want to bring them inside can easily cut them and put them in a vase.

Find a space that has plenty of sunshine to plant Phlox. They do best with well-drained soil but need plenty of water. During the growing season, water Garden Phlox once per week and keep the soil moist during periods of drought.

German Bearded Iris

Scientific name: Iris germanica

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe
Plant Size: 12-40 inches
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-10

German Bearded Iris features vibrant colors, such as royal purple, with a lovely pattern on each petal. This flower gets its common name from the fuzzy "beards" atop the falls. This species has so many hybrids that many of the varieties aren't morphologically typical of the Iris germanica. These perennials attract butterflies and hummingbirds but are deer-resistant.

This stunning flower blooms best when it gets plenty of sun but can tolerate partial shade—Plant German Bearded Iris in well-drained soil humus soil. You will want to keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering it. Once established, German Bearded Iris plants can tolerate some periods of drought. Every three-four years, divide German Bearded Iris plants to avoid overcrowding.

Greek Valerian

Scientific name: Polemonium caeruleum

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe
Plant Size: 12 to 24 inches
Sun Exposure: Partial to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-9

Greek Valerian, also known as "Jacob's Ladder," is a perennial that features unique, delicate petals that form clumps of eye-catching blooms. Its scientific name, "Polemonium," refers to King Polemon of Pontus. Its leaves resemble ladders, so the name "Jacob's Ladder" was inspired by the ladder seen by Jacob in the bible.

This herbaceous perennial is a spring ephemeral wildflower. You can find rich blue or purple varieties in color, and each center contains a vibrant dot of yellow.

These dainty perennials enjoy a nice, shady place to grow. Darker-leaf varieties can tolerate more sunshine as long as they receive plenty of water—Plant Greek Valerian in loose, well-drained soil. Regularly watering allows you to enjoy your Greek Valerian blooms longer.

Hardy Geranium

Scientific name: Geranium bohemicum

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe
Plant Size: 12 to 18 inches
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-9

Though it comes from the same family, Hardy Geranium has quite a few differences with Geraniums, which are actually a hybrid often referred to as "zonal geraniums". Colors can vary between blue, pink, white, and purple. Hardy Geranium flowers are dainty and cup-shaped, making them attractive to bees and butterflies.

When planting Hardy Geranium flowers, ensure that the crown of the plant is just under the earth or barely visible. Deep planting can delay blooming or prevent it altogether. Cutting the flowers back allows you to enjoy another bloom in July or August. These are drought-tolerant plants, so avoid overwatering.

Hydrangea

Scientific name: Hydrangea

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: Up to 15 Feet
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-7

You'll be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn't enjoy Hydrangeas. These gorgeous flowers bloom in a variety of colors, including multiple shades of purple. Each species varies in the look of the foliage and the flowers themselves. You can find varieties with round flower heads while others appear flat and dainty.

Most species of hydrangeas are adaptable to growing conditions. Plant Hydrangeas in well-drained soil, keep them regularly watered, and they are likely to thrive. You can find this perennial in locations from coastal to woodlands and everything in-between.

Lavender

Scientific name: Lavandula

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Mediterranean
Plant Size: 1 to 3 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-9

Lavender is known for its strong fragrance and light but vibrant purple shades. It grows upward and has flower spikes poking through its pale green foliage. Deer dislike the smell of Lavender, so it makes a great option to plant near vegetables to keep them away.

Lavender teas and essential oils are commonly used to promote a better night's sleep and relaxation, among other benefits. The flowers and leaves of Lavender are edible and are popularly used to make teas. Many people enjoy the flavor of Lavender, though it is somewhat bitter. It is toxic to most pets, including cats and dogs, so keep it in a space where they cannot get to.

Most lavender cultivars do best in full sun and will reward you with more blooms. They don't grow well in the shade, so carefully plant them in an area that has direct sunlight and away from large trees. Well-drained soil that is slightly moist works best for these plants. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and rarely need watering.

Leading Lady Plum

Scientific name: Monarda didyma

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 2-3 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-7

Planting Leading Lady Plum, also known as Bee Balm, will give your garden a burst of intense purple color. This is a densely branched plant with a somewhat glossy appearance in its foliage. Each flower contains sweet nectar that attracts pollinating insects and hummingbirds. As an added bonus, Leading Lady Plum is deer resistant.

Leading Lady Plum should get full sun at least 6 hours daily to get the best blooms but can tolerate 4-5 hours. This eye-catching perennial has average water needs and can thrive in multiple soil types, including clay and sand.

Lenten Rose

Scientific name: Helleborus orientalis

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe
Plant Size: 12-18 in tall and wide
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Plant Zone: 4 to 9

Despite its name, Lenten Rose isn't a rose at all; it belongs to the buttercup family. Lenten Rose is a relatively easy perennial to grow and produces stunning flower buds that look like roses. Its rosy-purple blooms paired with evergreen foliage offer a very feminine appearance. It may bloom downward, upward, or outward depending on the variety.

These perennials thrive in the shade, making them a great choice to plant underneath a shady tree. Some sun in winter is fine, but they require full or partial shade in the summer months. Moist, well-drained, and fertile soil will give Lenten Rose the best results. Soggy soil can lead to disease, so avoid overwatering.

Lungwort

Scientific name: Pulmonaria

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe, Asia
Plant Size: 6–12 in tall, 12–18 in wide
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade
Plant Zone: 3 to 8

Lungwort is a low-growing plant that gets its name from its lung-shaped leaves as well as its prior use to treat lung conditions. Now, many gardeners use Lungwort to spice up their garden in early spring. Young plants will have slightly pink hues until they grow into violet-blue blooms.

Plant Lungwort in a partially shaded area and avoid any harsh sunlight, especially in hot weather. However, too much shade could cause faded coloring. Hot and humid locations may be too intense for Lungwort as they prefer mild temperatures. Rich, well-drained soil works best for Lungwort, and it needs moderate watering.

May Night Sage

Scientific name: Salvia sylvestris

Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe
Plant Size: 1-3 feet
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-8

May Night Sage features rich purple flowers that bloom in late spring and reblooms in the summertime. Many varieties of May Night, including Salvia divinorum' is most commonly known for its hallucinogenic properties. Salvia sylvetris grows upward into spikes of flower clusters.

Plant May Night Sage in a sunny location with well-drained soil. They become more tolerant of drought as they get older but require regular watering the first year. Adding sand can further help drainage and prevent water from pooling up.

Meadow Rue

Scientific name: Thalictrum

Soil type: Well-drained
Plant height: 2 to 3 feet
Plant width: 2 to 3 feet
Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
USDA zones: 5 to 8

Meadow Rue contained clusters of small, dainty light purple flowers with pale yellow pistils. Some gardeners may mistake this perennial with Columbine flowers because of their similar downward-facing appearance. Its foliage ranges in color from blueish-green to yellowish-green. These delicate wispy flowers are deer and rabbit-resistant but attract pollinating insects.

Originally grown in marshes, Meadow Rue does best in rich, humus soil. However, they can tolerate well-drained soil as well. The soil should be kept moist but not too wet and can develop mildew if too much water surrounds it.

Mistflower

Scientific name: Eupatorium coelestinum L

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 1-3 Feet
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 5–9

Also referred to as Hardy Ageratum, Mistflower perennials are known for their fuzzy purple flower clusters. Aptly named, Mistflower appears misty because of its multiple long stamens. It is easy to confuse Mistflower with the Floss Flower, which also has an airy appearance.

Eupatorium is a species used in traditional medicine to alleviate sore throats treat skin infections, and the leaves can help wounds to stop bleeding. Tennyson's study reported that this species has high antioxidant activity, offering multiple health benefits.

While Mistflower can grow fine in full sun, it prefers partial sun, especially during hot afternoons. These adorable little flowers can thrive in multiple soil types so long as they get plenty of water. For best results, keep the soil nice and moist and pay extra attention during periods of drought until it's established. Usually, you will need to water this plant once or twice per week.

Monkshood

Scientific name: Aconitum

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe, Asia
Plant Size: 2–4 ft tall, 1–2 ft wide
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Plant Zone: 3 to 7

As the name suggests, Monkshood flowers closely resemble the hood on a monk's robe. This vibrant flower features unique blue-purple sepals, which actually hide its petals. There are about 250 species of aconite, but Aconitum napellus is the most commonly grown ornamental variety.

Aconite grows moderately slow; when planted in spring, you can enjoy the eye-catching blooms in the middle of summer. Monkshood can be somewhat picky about its soil. If the soil is too wet, it can cause the plants to look straggly, and too much water will drown the roots. Monkshood can grow fine in a partially shaded area but prefers a good amount of sun.

Pasque Flower

Scientific name: Pulsatilla

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 10 to 12 inches
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 4-8

Pasque Flowers feature vibrant colors and, depending on the variety, can be a blue-purple or red-purple. There are about 40 different species of Pulsatilla, but the most common is the violet color. The large center is bright yellow, offering a good amount of contrast. Its foliage is often a soft green color, making this an all-around eye-catching plant.

These flowers keep rabbits away while attracting pollinating insects. Once established, they can tolerate some periods of drought and do well in dry, cool comments. In the summer, they will need plenty of water. Once early spring arrives, the Pasque Flower will begin to bloom, sometimes when frost is still present.

Periwinkle

Scientific name: Vinca minor

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe
Plant Size: 16 in
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Plant Zone: 4 to 9

Periwinkle, also known as vinca minor or creeping myrtle, is a low-maintenance evergreen perennial flower that is extremely pest-tolerant. Vinca minor has small flowers that may be blue, purple, lavender, or white. Many gardeners love periwinkle for ground coverage because it spreads rapidly, sometimes mounding up to two feet. It is important to note that periwinkle is toxic to pets, so keep nosey pets away from it.

Vinca minor can grow in just about any sun condition but prefers partial shade. Plant Periwinkle vines in well-drained soil but aren't too picky about the soil type. For quick coverage, plant Periwinkle roughly one foot apart. Mature Vinca minor plants can tolerate periods of drought, but younger plants require moist soil for best growth.

Pigsqueak

Scientific name: Bergenia purpurascens

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Asia
Plant Size: 1-2 feet
Sun Exposure: Partial to Full Shade
Plant Zone: 4-8

You may have heard of this perennial as Pigsqueak, Elephant Ears, or Bergenia. Pigsqueak gets its name from the sound of its leaves rubbing together. Its leaves are commonly called elephant ears because of the close resemblance to the animal's ear shape. Pigsqueak has green foliage during summertime and transitions to reddish-brown by winter.

Pigsqueak can tolerate multiple soil types as long as it grows in well-drained soil. They grow best when planted in an area that gets plenty of sunlight and receives regular watering. When planting Bergenias, keep them at least a foot apart to avoid overcrowding them.

Princess Flower

Scientific name: Tibouchina urvilleana

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Brazil
Plant Size: 6 to 8 feet
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Sun
Plant Zone: 9-11

This prestigious flower was given the Award of Garden Meret by the Royal Horticultural Society. Princess Flowers produce large, purple flowers and have magenta-colored buds. You can enjoy Princess flowers nearly all year if you live in a hot climate. Princess Flower can get quite tall, up to six feet, if planted outside.

Plant Princess Flowers in well-drained, rich soil. This perennial prefers to bathe in sunlight, and harsh winters can wreak havoc on them. If you live in a cooler region, it can help to bring these flowers inside to protect against frost. You may opt to prune this shrubby plant to keep it in your preferred shape and size.

Purple Bird Corydalis

Scientific name: Corydalis Canadensis

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Northern hemisphere
Plant Size: 12 – 18 inches
Sun Exposure: Shade or partial sun
Plant Zone: 5 – 7

Purple Bird Corydalis gets its name from the Greek meaning "crested lark" because its flowers resemble the shape of the bird. It features vibrant purple tubular flowers that are attractive to butterflies but keep deer away. Corydalis is a popular plant in Chinese medicine with benefits, including relief from mild mental disorders, nerve damage, and limb tremors.

Corydalis plants can add pops of color in the shady areas in your garden. While they can grow fine with some sun, they do best when kept out of harsh afternoon sunshine. Well-drained soil that doesn't get too wet is ideal for Purple Bird Corydalis, and overwatering may cause the roots to rot.

Purple Hyacinth Bean

Scientific name: Lablab purpureus

Plant Type: Annual
Geographic Origin: Africa, Asia
Plant Size: 10 to 15 feet
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Plant Zone: 10-11

This perennial is one of the most unique flowering plants you can add to your garden. Although Purple Hyacinth Bean is almost entirely edible, many gardeners grow it for its pretty purple flowers. Purple flows through nearly the entire plant, including the stems and leaves.

This plant grows best when grown in an area with full sun. Though they can grow in a lightly shaded area, they are at risk for diseases. Shade can also decrease the number of blooms you can expect. Purple Hyacinth Bean enjoys drinking up a lot of water but keeps the soil from becoming too wet. Well-drained soil can help avoid water from pooling up and causing root rot.

Russian Sage

Scientific name: Perovskia atriplicifolia

Soil type: Dry to medium
Plant height: 18 to 24 inches
Plant width: 18 to 24 inches
Sun exposure: Full sun
USDA zones: 5 to 9

Russian Sage features fuzzy cloud-like flowers that offer a lot of texture in your garden. These plants can also be quite fragrant, especially when crushed or rubbed. Many people describe the fragrance as a mix of Lavender and sage. Although gardeners love the relaxing aroma, deer and pests stay away from it.

This perennial likes plenty of sun and grows fairly quickly. Adding extra flower food to soil can allow it to bloom even better. Russian sage isn't too picky with soil types and can even thrive in poor soils. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but can use water in extreme heat or periods of drought.

Sedum

Scientific name: Sedum

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Europe, Asia
Plant Size: 1–2 ft.
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Plant Zone: 3–9

Sedum is one of the best plants for beginner gardeners. In fact, some gardeners refer to them as "stonecrop" because the only thing that requires less care is stones. They feature fleshy green foliage and vibrant purple flower clusters. Plants can grow up to three feet tall, while some will stop growing underneath a foot in height, depending on the variety.

One of the main mistakes you can make with Sedum is giving it too much water or fertilizer. Sedum plants grow best in well-drained soil and partial sun. Not only is Sedum drought resistant, but it is resilient to pests and diseases.

Speedwell

Scientific name: Veronica spicata

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Northern Hemisphere
Plant Size: 6 to 36 inches
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Plant Zone: 3-9

Speedwell, also known as Veronica, is a perennial that has hundreds of species, with dozens of popular landscaping plants. Veronica spicata, or Speedwell, is one of the most commonly grown varieties. This perennial features spikes of vibrant purple flowers growing from the dense foliage. Varieties can grow anywhere from half of a foot to over three feet.

Plant Speedwell in late spring, once the soil is warm. These flowers grow pretty quickly, sometimes reaching their full height before the end of their growing season. Veronica prefers lots of sun but will grow well in partial shade. Grow Speedwell in well-drained soil as overly wet soil can kill them for best results. Veronicas are pretty drought-resistant but should be in an area that protects them from strong, damaging winds.

Spiderwort

Scientific name: Tradescantia

Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 12 to 24 inches
Sun exposure: Part shade to full shade
USDA zones: 5 to 9

Spiderwort features grassy foliage paired with dainty purple flowers. Each bloom will only last about one day, but luckily, there are plenty of buds that will last you through the spring. The entire Spiderwort plant is edible, and some say it has medicinal properties. Crushed leaves may alleviate stinging from insect bites, and tea of its boiled roots has a laxative effect. This perennial is attractive to insects such as bees and butterflies as well.

Tradescantia isn't too picky about sunlight or soil types but grows best in well-drained soil in partial shade. As long as Spiderwort gets plenty of water and a few hours of sun, you can expect quite a few blooms. This drought-tolerant perennial can still benefit from regular watering during hotter months unless it gets plenty of rainfall.

Tatarian Aster

Scientific name: Aster tataricus

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: Eastern Asia
Plant Size: 3-6 Feet
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-9

Tartarian Aster comes from the Asteraceae family that it shares with mums, sunflowers, and daisies. Its flowers have almost a neon lavender blueish purple color to them, which contrasts nicely with its bright yellow center. These plants can grow up to a foot tall, and the leaves get smaller toward the top. Tartarian Aster may need staking depending on how tall it grows.

This perennial does best with lots of sunshine. Aster tatacaricus can grow fine in a variety of soil types, but too rich soil may give it a scraggly appearance. Provide young Tartarian Aster plants with even moistured soil. Once established, this flower is drought-tolerant and can thrive with the occasional rainfall.

Vervain

Scientific name: Verbena

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: North America
Plant Size: 2-5 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Plant Zone: 3-8

With over 200 species of Verbena, there is a perennial for all gardening skill levels. Pure Vervain is often grown by expert gardeners, however. Most of the Verbena species you see in garden beds are hybrids and will be labeled as such when purchasing. Vervain has teeny-tiny clusters of pale purple flowers and grows between 2 and 5 feet tall. Some people also love to use Vervain as an herbal supplement that may help with aches and pains, mental disorders, and urinary tract infections.

Verbena plants require a lot of sunlight, at least 8-10 hours of sun each day. If you plant Vervain in a shaded area, the flowering will be diminished. This plant prefers fairly dry, well-drained acidic soil. Vervain should be kept as evenly moist as young plants. Once established, Vervain has average water needs but is considered to be drought-tolerant.

Windflower

Scientific name: Anemone

Plant Type: Perennial
Geographic Origin: China
Plant Size: 30 to 36 inches
Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Plant Zones: 5 to 8

Windflower features flowers in shades of blues, pinks, purples, reds, and whites depending on the time of year it blooms. Each species has its own unique root structure, so the care required will vary between the type you plant. These perennials share a resemblance to daisies and only grow to be about half a foot tall.

Most Windflower species should get at least partial sun, though some varieties do better in more shaded areas—anemones like evenly moist, well-drained soil. Adding compost or organic matter can benefit the soil. Some varieties require different amounts of water, but most thrive when watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.

Final Thoughts

Purple perennial flowers provide your garden with a burst of color and they also contrast well with the surrounding greenery. Their colors can give you feelings of romance, femininity, or royalty, depending on the shades. Many purple perennials have unique and eye-catching appearances, adding plenty of character to your garden. Each flower has benefits that are attractive to each gardener. Whether you're looking for a fragrant plant or a showpiece, there is a purple perennial flower for you and your garden.

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Source: https://www.allaboutgardening.com/purple-perennial-flowers/