Who else agrees that those shady garden corners can often feel dull and lifeless? I guess the problem is that not many colorful plants can thrive in such conditions.
But what if I told you that you don’t need full sunlight to enjoy stunning flowers? Oh, you don’t believe me? Well, purple-shade perennials are here to prove you wrong!
Get ready to bring your garden to life, because I’m about to share 11 breathtaking purple perennials that will add a splash of color without all the fuss. And the best part? They’re as easy to care for as they are beautiful!
1. Astilbe For Texture And Elegance
Do you want to brighten up your shady summer garden? Astilbe is the ideal plant for you! It offers a refined touch to your garden with its elegant, feathery plume-like flowers that bloom in a rainbow of colors, including purple.
Now, how exactly can you make this plant bloom all summer long? First, plant it in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and make sure to keep the soil moist throughout the growing season.
Oh, and remember, astilbe is a shade-loving perennial so avoid direct sunlight at all costs, as too much sun can scorch its delicate leaves and blooms.
2. Corydalis Is A Cheerful Purple Bloomer For The Shaded Garden
And now, the plant I definitely look forward to seeing every spring. Of course, it’s the Corydalis. Its vibrant purple flowers start blooming in early spring and keep going through the summer, and will create a splash of color that doesn’t fade too soon.
Corydalis does its best work in cool, moist soil, which is exactly what every shaded garden offers. Just make sure to keep it hydrated throughout the season, but don’t let the soil become overly soggy.
3. Add A Royal Touch To Your Garden With Heuchera
If you want to add a little “wow” factor to your garden, Heuchera is your go-to! The vibrant, ruffled leaves come in hues of purple, burgundy, and even silver, and they really hold up well in both sun and shade.
The key to keeping Heuchera happy? Well-drained soil and regular watering! it’s not a fan of being too dry, so make sure it stays moist without being waterlogged.
4. Bigleaf Hydrangea For A Dramatic Touch
Here comes the diva! Bigleaf hydrangea steals every show with its large, rounded blooms that come in a variety of colors, from deep blues to soft pinks, and they last from summer into fall.
Did you know the hydrangea flower color changes with the soil’s pH? It’s a fun way to mix things up!
For the best results, plant this hydrangea in rich, moist soil and shield it from the harshest sun! Word to the wise: this trick is the secret sauce for keeping those dramatic blooms in the spotlight even longer!
5. Creeping Phlox Brings A Blanket Of Purple
Think of Creeping Phlox as nature’s way of rolling out the red carpet… Only this one comes in dazzling shades of purple! With its star-shaped blooms spreading like wildfire each spring, it blankets the ground in a show-stopping display that’s impossible to ignore.
Perfect for sprucing up garden beds, edging borders, or filling the cracks between stepping stones, this hardy groundcover is a real crowd-pleaser. Just plant it in well-drained soil, give it a sunny spot to shine, and let it work its magic.
6. Virginia Bluebells Create A Soft Purple Carpet That Brightens The Shade
Looking to light up those shady corners of your garden? Virginia Bluebells have you covered – literally! Their dreamy, soft purple blooms sweep across the ground in early spring and will add both color and texture to your garden.
These native beauties thrive in cool, moist soil and shady spots, making them a perfect fit for woodland gardens or tucked-away corners. Plant them once, and they’ll come back year after year, like old friends who never miss a springtime visit.
7. Spice Things Up With Columbines
And now, something special for those who want to add a little flair to their garden. Columbines bring some whimsy and spice to your garden.
Their uniquely shaped flowers, with long spurs and bold colors, make them stand out in any outdoor space.
Columbines typically bloom in late spring and that dazzling display will last for weeks. They’re also quite easy to grow! Just plant them in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and give them some sun or partial shade. With a little care, you’ll have a garden full of colorful, charming Columbines year after year.
8. Bergenia’s Bold Purple Flowers Signal Spring’s Arrival
There’s nothing quite like Bergenia’s bold purple flowers to let you know that spring has truly arrived. These striking blooms emerge early in the season, so if you were looking for a vibrant focal point for your garden, let’s just say, your quest is officially over!
But purple flowers aren’t the only thing special about Bergenias. Take a look at their gorgeous large glossy leaves! Irresistible, right?
They’re a breeze to grow in well-drained soil, thriving in partial shade but happy to soak up a bit of sun, too. Once planted, these hardy charmers will return every spring with little effort.
9. Jacob’s Ladder Will Make A Big Impact
Ok, Jacob’s Ladder might not boast the biggest blooms, but it sure knows how to climb the ranks in garden charm!
With its vibrant blue or purple flowers lighting up late spring and its unique ladder-like leaves adding texture and flair, this plant is a true multitasker. It thrives in rich, well-drained soil and partial shade, so it’s the perfect pick for those tricky spots that need a little extra love.
Trust me, Jacob’s Ladder will quickly earn its place as a garden favorite, proving that sometimes, it’s the quiet ones that steal the show.
10. Cranesbill Is A Low-Maintenance Purple Beauty
Are you a total beginner? Cranesbill is the purple shade perennial you need! Its low-maintenance nature makes it perfect for gardeners who want a splash of color without all the fuss.
It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun or partial shade and it’s really adaptable to a wide range of garden conditions. Sounds perfect, right?
11. Don’t Forget The Delicate Lungworts!
Don’t overlook Lungworts! They may not shout for attention, but their soft pink, purple, and blue blooms quietly steal the show. These early spring bloomers often appear alongside the first daffodils or crocuses and will add a touch of delicate beauty to your garden.
But what makes Lungworts truly special, though, is their striking silver-patterned leaves, which continue to captivate long after the flowers have faded.
So, ready to give your garden a makeover with these gorgeous purple perennials? Enjoy watching as they brighten up even the darkest corners with their stunning blooms.