I’ll admit it – I have a thing for plants that stand out. My home is already brimming with greenery, but when I first discovered purple vines, I was hooked. There’s just something magical about those deep, rich hues draping down a shelf or climbing a trellis. If you’re looking to add a pop of unexpected colour to your home, let me take you on a journey through the eight best purple vines I’ve grown (and occasionally struggled with!).
1. Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida)
The first time I saw a Purple Heart, I was in a small garden shop, and I couldn’t resist its vibrant leaves. It’s a hardy plant, forgiving even when I forgot to water it (oops). I love how its purple hues look almost velvety, and as a bonus, it grows quickly. Just give it bright, indirect light, and watch it thrive. Mine has taken over an entire corner of my windowsill, and I couldn’t be happier.
2. Purple Passion (Gynura aurantiaca)
This one’s a bit dramatic – in the best way. Its fuzzy, purple leaves have an almost ethereal glow under the right lighting. When I first brought it home, I remember feeling slightly intimidated because it looked so exotic. But as long as you keep the soil moist and avoid direct sun, it’s surprisingly easy to care for. I even caught my friend stroking its velvety leaves during a visit!
3. Lavender Jade Vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys)
This one is a showstopper. Okay, full disclosure: it took me ages to find one of these. But when I finally did, it was worth every penny. Its soft lavender-purple flowers cascade like a waterfall, creating such a dreamy vibe in my living room. It’s a bit of a diva, though – it loves humidity, so I’ve had to invest in a humidifier to keep it happy. But honestly? No regrets.
4. Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’)
This vine isn’t just for your garden. I discovered its potential as a houseplant when I accidentally left a cutting indoors – and it thrived! Its deep, purplish leaves are striking, and it’s ridiculously low-maintenance. I just give it a bit of water when the soil feels dry, and it rewards me with lush growth. Plus, it’s great for hanging baskets.
5. Purple Ivy (Hedera helix ‘Purple Heart’)
This one feels a bit like royalty. Its classic ivy shape, paired with a subtle purple hue, makes it a favourite of mine. I’ve got it climbing a small trellis in my bedroom, and it brings such a cosy, enchanting vibe to the space. I’ve found that it loves cooler rooms, which works perfectly since I don’t like heating my bedroom too much anyway.
6. Bougainvillaea ‘Purple Queen’
Growing this indoors was a bit of a gamble, but let me tell you – when it blooms, it’s spectacular. Those bright purple bracts are impossible to ignore. I keep mine in a sunny spot, and while it can be a bit temperamental (it’s not a fan of overwatering), it’s worth the effort. Every time it flowers, I feel like I’ve brought a piece of the Mediterranean into my flat.
7. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina)
This was one of the first purple plants I ever owned, and I’ve since propagated it countless times for friends and family. Its striped purple and silver leaves add such a fun touch to any room. It’s a bit of a wanderer (as the name suggests), so I’ve trained mine to climb up a small ladder near my desk. Watching it grow is incredibly satisfying.
8. Morning Glory ‘Grandpa Ott’
Okay, I’ll be honest – this one surprised me. I initially thought morning glories were strictly outdoor plants, but with enough sunlight, they do well indoors too. Its deep purple blooms are such a treat in the mornings; they’re like little bursts of happiness. Mine grows near a south-facing window, and I’ve added a few fairy lights around its trellis for a magical evening effect.
My Purple Plant Journey
Growing purple vines has been a journey of trial and error, but the joy they bring is unmatched. I still remember the first time my bougainvillaea bloomed indoors – I may have done a little happy dance around my living room! Each plant has its quirks, but that’s what makes this hobby so rewarding.
If you’re looking to add a bit of drama, elegance, and (let’s be honest) jealousy-inducing beauty to your home, give one of these purple vines a try. Trust me, you won’t regret it – and your Instagram followers will thank you too.