20 Purple House Plants That Can Be Grown In Indoor Spaces

Purple house plants can add vibrant pops of color to any indoor space. From easy-care succulents to elegant orchids, there are beautiful deep purple options for any level of green thumb.

Whether you’re looking to energize your bedroom, class up your living room, or bring the outside into your home office, these purple beauties will liven up any room with bold hues. In this article, we’ll introduce you to stunning purple houseplants you need to brighten up your home.

Purple House Plants to Brighten Any Indoor Garden Space

1. Purple Waffle Plant

The purple waffle plant or Tradescantia spathacea features soft, succulent leaves patterned with deep violet markings. As its name suggests, the textured leaves resemble waffles with their raised ridges and whimsical texture. It is a native of Central America, this bubbly beauty thrives in humid conditions with high light just shy of direct sun.

Watering on the top inch of soil should be done especially when it is dry and mist leaves to boost humidity levels. Watch out for signs of mealybugs and scale insects drawn to its thick leaves. With proper care, the waffle plant will reward you with years of architectural foliage perfect for brightening any corner.

2. Prayer Plant

The prayer plant, or Maranta leuconeura, is named for the way its heart-shaped leaves appear to fold together during evening hours resembling hands pressed in prayer. A native to shady forests of South America, it flourishes in conditions that mimic its natural habitat.

Place in medium to low light away from direct rays and maintain high humidity with pebble trays or a humidifier. Its leaves are indicators of its hydration needs – when they begin to droop it’s time to water. Be sure the soil dries slightly between waterings.

Watch for signs of spider mites, which can spread rapidly on prayer plants and other houseplants drawn to warm, dry indoor air. With its unique horticultural habits and vibrant foliage, the prayer plant is a spiritual addition to any space.

3. Purple Heart

The purple heart or Tradescantia pallida boasts velvety heart-shaped leaves of rich violet tones. A lovely option for beginning plant parents, it thrives on most indoor conditions with medium light and occasional watering. It is best to always allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.

The purple heart is dazzling yet durable, bouncing back even after periods of dryness. Its trailing stems make it perfect for hanging baskets or spilling over the edges of a pot. Take care to check leaf axils where mealybugs sometimes hide, removing any signs of infestation before they spread.

A favorite of landscapers for its hardiness, the purple heart brings lush lavender elegance to any interior. Whether in the kitchen or home office, this low maintenance beauty is sure to brighten your space with its vivid violet hues.

4. Polka Dot Plant

The polka dot plant is an eye-catching houseplant known for its unusual leaves speckled with white spots. Native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa, this flowering herbaceous perennial thrives as an indoor plant.

Its tongue-like leaves emerge green with hundreds of round white dots creating a polka dot pattern. Over time, these spots may run together or disappear depending on environmental conditions like light levels. Tall erect stems carry clusters of small pink, white, or lavender flowers.

Polka dot plants grow well in medium to bright indirect light. They prefer temperatures above 60 Fahrenheit and soil that drains freely while staying moist. Too much direct sun or dry spells can cause leaf drop. Propagation is easy through stem cuttings that root readily in water or soil.

What really distinguishes this plant is its ability to fold up leaves in response to touch or low humidity. This unusual movement protecting its delicate foliage makes the polka dot plant an engaging conversation piece that adds visual interest to any room. With proper care, it makes an eye-catching accent for tables or windowsills.

5. Fuchsia

Fuchsia features dangling flowers in shades of red, pink, or purple alongside green arrowhead leaves. A tender perennial grown as an annual indoors, it offers seasonal color from spring through fall. Provide fuchsia with plentiful sunlight near an East or West-facing window using a well-draining potting mix. Water regularly when soil is dry and fertilize monthly during the growing season.

Watch for signs of spider mites and mealybugs, removing affected growth promptly to prevent infestation. With their whimsical blooms and elegant silhouette, fuchsias evoke a feeling of carefree summer color even in the dreariest months.

6. Purple Russian Sage

The Purple Russian Sage, specifically the Perovskia atriplicifolia variety, is a woody perennial plant that exhibits aromatic, silver-gray foliage and tall spikes of purple flowers. Its feathery foliage and vibrant blooms create a beautiful contrast in gardens or landscapes.

This plant thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. With its drought tolerance and long-lasting flowers, Purple Russian Sage is a popular choice for adding texture, color, and a touch of elegance to gardens, borders, or rock gardens.

7. Orchid

It comprises one of the largest plant families in the world, and includes a variety of tree-dwelling, terrestrial and epiphytic types suitable for indoor growing. With proper care, colorful Phalaenopsis (moth orchids) and Oncidium varieties can bloom repeatedly. Maintain consistent sun exposure and use an airy, well-draining potting mix.

Water just enough to prevent shriveling, but allow the potting medium to dry between waterings. Place orchids together for a stunning floral display that requires minimal pruning or pest monitoring.

8. African Violet

The African violet is a classic houseplant admired for its colorful rosettes of velvety leaves and delicate blooms. Native to Tanzania and Kenya, African violets thrive as indoor plants in temperate climates.

Varieties come in a wide palette including shades of fuchsia, lavender, white, rose, and burgundy. Plants form tight rosettes of heart-shaped gray-green leaves, often flushed or edged in contrasting hues. Above, they bear solitary flowers or clustered blooms on thin stalks. Flowers last several weeks and are replaced periodically if conditions suit the plant.

African violets do best with moderate indirect sunlight and temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. They require nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Allow the top inch to dry before watering from below. Overwatering or fluctuating conditions can cause leaf drop. To keep plants flowering, increase nutrients and sunlight levels as blooms fade.

Propagation from leaf cuttings is simple, allowing hobbyists to share in the plant’s beauty. African violets bring a special gift with their compact stature, colorful display, and charming wildforest looks—transforming any modern or vintage interior into a verdant retreat filled with natural charm. Their popularity endures for good reason wherever houseplants find a home.

9. Begonia

Begonias add lush greenery and splashes of color to shaded interior spaces. From cascading varieties like wax begonias to upright canopy-forming species, there are begonias for every growing condition. Leaf shapes and hues vary widely, from narrow dark green leaves to broad palm-inspired foliage in red, pink and orange.

Begonias prefer conditions on the brighter side of medium light with consistently moist soil. Check foliage regularly for pests like spider mites or mealybugs, controlling any infestations promptly.

10. Purple Basil

Purple Basil, or Ocimum basilicum ‘Purpurascens,’ is a variety of basil that stands out with its striking purple foliage. The deep purple leaves of this herb add a touch of drama and visual interest to herb gardens, container plantings, or edible landscapes. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil, just like its green-leaved counterparts.

Apart from its ornamental appeal, Purple Basil also offers a culinary delight. It possesses a sweet, slightly spicy flavor that is similar to traditional sweet basil, making it a versatile herb in the kitchen. Its purple leaves can be used fresh in salads, as a garnish, or infused into oils and vinegars to add a pop of color and flavor to various dishes.

Growing Purple Basil is relatively easy, and it can be grown from seeds or transplants. It requires regular watering and should be harvested frequently to encourage bushier growth. As a member of the mint family, Purple Basil is known for its aromatic leaves, releasing a pleasant scent when brushed against or crushed. This aromatic quality, combined with its vibrant purple foliage, makes it a delightful addition to any herb garden or culinary adventure.

11. Coleus

Coleus are vibrant foliage houseplants renowned for their stunning leaf colors and patterns. Native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia, coleus thrive as indoor plants in temperate climates.

Amazing leaf variations include rich tones of burgundy, purple, green and cream in unique combinations. Leaves emerge as solid shades or intricately splashed, veined and edged with contrasting hues. Soft leaf textures range from smooth to finely hairy. Some reach over 2 feet tall bearing clusters of small pink, white or yellow flowers.

Coleus prosper in locations with ample sunlight such as south facing windows. They prefer temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit and slightly moist well-draining soil. Pruning spent blooms promotes bushy growth with more brilliantly patterned leaves.

These show-stopping houseplants brighten interiors with a touch of the tropics. Their colorful foliage far outshines any other when it comes to excite the eyes. Low care requirements make coleus excellent for brightening kitchens, offices, or areas limited to bright indirect sunlight.

Few houseplants offer more vibrant beauty throughout changing seasons indoors than uniquely patterned coleus. Their eye-popping designs are perfectly sculpted for modern displays or traditional settings alike.

12. Purple Velvet Plant

The Purple Velvet Plant (Gynura aurantiaca) is prized for its unique foliage. Given adequate low to medium light and occasional water to keep the soil slightly moist, it thrives in average indoor conditions. Deadhead spent stems to encourage new growth.

The purple velvet plant boasts unique heart-shaped leaves with a plush purple velvety texture. With its stunning foliage, it makes for a good addition to any plant collection.Check leaves periodically and treat any mite infestations promptly.

13. Hydrangea

Hydrangeas typically bloom on new growth each season. Shape, duration and color vary with species. Provide consistent moisture and prune judiciously to encourage robust regrowth. When grown indoors, position near a south or east-facing window for optimal performance. Check leaves periodically and treat any mite infestation issues promptly.

Hydrangeas bear diverse leaf shapes ranging from oval to pointed, often cloaked in shades of green. They require partial shade and fertility-rich soil to thrive. In summer, hydrangeas burst into globular flowers in an array of colors. Pruning buds in winter encourages robust new growth the following season. When grown indoors near east or sun-filtered windows, hydrangeas make lovely long-lasting accent plants.

14. Plectranthus

Purple Coleus, scientifically known as Plectranthus scutellarioides, is a stunning annual plant with colorful, serrated leaves in various shades of purple and green. Its foliage displays intricate patterns and contrasts, creating a vibrant and dynamic visual display. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

With its bushy growth habit and intense coloration, Purple Coleus is an excellent choice for adding a pop of color to outdoor gardens, borders, or containers, making it a favorite among gardeners who appreciate its versatility and eye-catching appeal.

15. Plumeria

Native to tropical regions of North and South America, Plumeria prefers warm, humid conditions to thrive. Also commonly known as frangipani, it has glossy oval leaves and is prized for its fragrant blooms in shades of white, yellow, pink or red.

Indoors, a sunny windowsill or under grow lights provides sufficient energy for growth and flowering during its growing season in spring and summer. Do always allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Prune stems after flowering to encourage bushy new growth.

Check leaves periodically for signs of mites and address any issues promptly. Plumeria appreciates a sunny windowsill and infrequent watering, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Pruning stems after flowering encourages lush new growth.

16. Bee Balm

Purple Bee Balm, or Monarda didyma, is a herbaceous perennial plant that showcases showy, tubular flowers in shades of purple. Its attractive blooms and ability to attract pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, make it a desirable choice for gardens and wildlife habitats. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.

Purple Bee Balm’s aromatic foliage adds to its appeal. When crushed or brushed against, the leaves release a pleasant fragrance reminiscent of mint and thyme. This quality makes it a popular choice for herb gardens and sensory gardens, where its delightful scent can be enjoyed up close. Additionally, the aromatic foliage of Purple Bee Balm is known to repel certain garden pests, making it a natural and attractive option for organic gardening.

The long blooming period of Purple Bee Balm, which typically occurs from mid to late summer, ensures a prolonged display of its vibrant purple flowers. It can serve as a striking focal point or be combined with other perennials and annuals to create a dynamic and colorful garden bed.

Its tall, upright growth habit reaching heights of 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm) adds vertical interest and structure to the garden, making it a versatile and visually appealing choice for various landscape designs.

17. Aster

The hardy perennial aster blooms prolifically in fall displays. Provide adequate drainage and moisture at roots during active growth. Cut stems back after the first frost. Among the last flowers to offer nectar to foraging pollinators. Ideal for outdoors, asters also make lovely seasonal accent plants when grown as tender annuals indoors near a sunny window.

Aster blooms profusely in late summer and fall, displaying soft lobed green foliage alongside its fluffy flower heads. It prefers partial shade and well-draining soil, requiring only seasonal watering. Among the last flowers to offer nectar to pollinators before frost.

18. Oxalis

Common oxalis varieties like shamrock plant and purple shamrock have an upright growth form with triangular, shamrock-like leaves that are often purple in color. It produces small pink, white or purple pea-like flowers throughout the year.

Oxalis appreciates partial to full shade with moist but well-draining soil. Pruning spent flower stems encourages reblooming. With its compact size and colorful foliage, oxalis is well-suited for shaded indoor areas and requires very little care.

19. Lavender

Lavender is valued for its aromatic foliage and flowers. Provide full sun for lush growth and flowering indoors. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Prune stems after blooming to maintain shape. Place near a warm, sunny window to mimic its Mediterranean origins. Layer soft foliage in arrangements.

Dried lavender sachets offer a tranquil infusion of its soothing fragrance. Lavender appreciates full sun and good drainage to thrive indoors. It has fragrant gray-green needle-like leaves and produces purple flower spikes in summer that are popular for dried arrangements. Lavender is generally pest-free when grown in conditions that mimic its Mediterranean origins, with occasional watering and pruning after blooming.

20. Azalea

Azaleas are beloved ornamental shrubs valued for their delicate blooms in a vibrant palette of colors. As spring arrives, azalea bushes erupt in a floral display that lights up gardens from early to late season.

A wide variety of cultivars produce clusters of vibrant blooms in hues spanning white, pink, red, yellow, orange and purple. Individual flowers have five petals curled backward elegantly from a central disc. Blooms range from single to fully double poufs clustered on luscious green shrubs.

Azaleas thrive best in partially shaded areas with acidic, organically-rich soil. Regular pruning maintains their dense habit. Come summer, spent flowers fade gracefully as vibrant new foliage emerges. Late fall brings more color with rosy autumn foliage tones.

Whether utilized as specimens, foundation plants for hedges, azaleas impart beauty for months. Bees swarm the nectar-rich blooms, followed later by vibrant fall foliage displays. Requiring minimal care once established, these show-stopping spring shrubs define East Coast charm, now enjoyed most anywhere through many cultivar options. Their prolific floral exhibitions persist as favorites worldwide for good reason.

Conclusion

In the end, these purple beauties find contentment through our care, as we do in caring for them.:

• The polka dot plant, or Hypoestes phyllostachya, bears rounded green leaves patterned with cream or white spots
• With delicate blossoms in a stunning array of colors and exotic shapes, orchids are prized houseplants known for their intricate flowers and waxy, often fragrant blooms.
• Also known as the purple heart, Tradescantia pallida features colorful heart-shaped leaves in shades of pink, purple or magenta

Their vivid hues lift spirits irrespective of seasons making them perfect additions to your indoor gardens.