9 Best Plants With Purple and Green Leaves

Add visual interest and textural contrast to your garden or indoor environment by including plants with colorful foliage. Choose plants with purple and green leaves if you want to draw attention to yourself.

You may use these plants as either showpieces or supporting cast members in your garden design thanks to their versatile sizes and shapes. 9 of the most beautiful plants with purple and green leaves are discussed in this article, along with information on how to care for them and what they need to thrive.

Purple and green are, in fact, opposites on the color wheel. That’s why you should utilize them together; the resulting contrast is stunning. Studies have revealed that people are more likely to take notice of plants with colorful foliage than those with standard green leaves.

Purple and green plants are also preferred for indoor settings due to the relaxing effect they have on humans. These purple and green leafed plants will make a bold impression in any setting, from the outdoors to the living room.

1. Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus)

This tropical plants features stunning metallic purple leaves with green veins. It thrives in warm, humid environments and can grow up to three feet tall. Persian Shield is a popular choice for gardens and indoor spaces alike.

Persian Shield
to: Proven Winners
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameStrobilanthes dyerianus
Common namesPersian Shield, Royal Purple Plant, Purple Velvet Plant, Strobilanthes, and Exotica
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial
Foliage colorShimmering purple, silver, and green leaves
Leaf shapeLarge and lance-shaped leaves
Mature sizeCan grow up to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) tall and wide
Bloom timeRarely blooms, but produces tubular purple flowers in late fall or early winter
Light requirementsNeeds bright, indirect light or partial shade
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5)
Watering needsModerate watering, allow the soil to dry partially between watering sessions
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 60°F (15.5°C) and 85°F (29.5°C)
HumidityPrefers high humidity levels above 50% but can tolerate lower levels
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets, but ingestion may cause mild stomach discomfort

2. Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides)

Coleus plants come in a wide range of colors and patterns, but many varieties feature leaves that are purple, green or a combination of both. These plants are easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions.

Coleus
Photo: Costa Farms
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameSolenostemon scutellarioides (formerly Coleus blumei)
Common namesColeus, Painted Nettle, Poor Man’s Croton, Flame Nettle, and Joseph’s Coat
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial
Foliage colorComes in a wide range of colors and patterns, including green, purple, pink, red, yellow, and white
Leaf shapeWide and flat, with scalloped or toothed edges
Mature sizeCan grow up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall and wide
Bloom timeProduces small, insignificant flowers in spikes in late summer or early fall
Light requirementsNeeds bright, indirect light or partial shade, can tolerate some direct sun
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0-7.0)
Watering needsModerate watering, allow the soil to dry partially between watering sessions
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 60°F (15.5°C) and 75°F (24°C), can be damaged by frost or extreme heat
HumidityPrefers high humidity levels, and can be grown indoors or outdoors with proper care
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets, but ingestion may cause mild stomach discomfort. Some people may experience skin irritation from handling the leaves.

3. Oxalis (Oxalis triangularis)

Also known as the purple shamrock, this plant features deep purple leaves with triangular-shaped leaflets. It produces delicate pink or white flowers and is popular as a houseplant.

Oxalis
Photo: The Gardening Cook
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameOxalis spp.
Common namesOxalis, Wood Sorrel, False Shamrock, and Buttercup Oxalis
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial or annual
Foliage colorComes in a wide range of colors, including green, purple, pink, red, yellow, and variegated
Leaf shapeConsists of three heart-shaped leaflets attached to a central point, giving it a shamrock-like appearance
Mature sizeCan range from a few inches tall to over a foot tall, depending on the species and cultivar
Bloom timeProduces small, delicate flowers in shades of white, pink, red, or yellow
Light requirementsVaries by species, but generally prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
Watering needsModerate watering, allow the soil to dry partially between watering sessions
TemperatureVaries by species, but generally thrives in warm temperatures between 60°F (15.5°C) and 75°F (24°C)
HumidityVaries by species, but generally prefers moderate to high humidity levels
ToxicityOxalis leaves contain oxalic acid, which can be toxic in large amounts. Ingestion may cause digestive issues or other health problems.

4. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina)

This popular houseplant has striking purple and green striped leaves. It is easy to care for and can be grown in a hanging basket or as a trailing plant.

Wandering Jew
Photo: Epic Gardening
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameTradescantia spp.
Common namesWandering Jew, Inch Plant, Spiderwort Plant, and Zebrina Plant
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial
Foliage colorComes in shades of green, purple, pink, and silver, often with stripes or markings
Leaf shapeLong, thin, and pointed, with a somewhat fleshy texture
Mature sizeCan grow up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) long and wide, depending on the species and cultivar
Bloom timeProduces small, delicate flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white, but is mainly grown for its foliage
Light requirementsPrefers bright, indirect light or partial shade, but can tolerate some direct sun
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
Watering needsModerate watering, allow the soil to dry partially between watering sessions
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 60°F (15.5°C) and 85°F (29.5°C), but can tolerate cooler temperatures
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity levels, and can be grown indoors or outdoors with proper care
ToxicityWandering Jew is considered mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested, and can cause skin irritation in some people.

5. Heuchera (Heuchera spp.)

Heuchera, also known as coral bells, are popular for their foliage. They come in a range of colors, including many with purple and green leaves. These plants are hardy and can be grown in a variety of climates.

Heuchera
Photo: Proven Winners
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameHeuchera spp.
Common namesCoral Bells, Alumroot
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial or evergreen subshrub
Foliage colorComes in a wide range of colors, including green, purple, pink, red, yellow, and variegated
Leaf shapeRounded, lobed or ruffled leaves that grow in a basal rosette
Mature sizeCan range from a few inches to over 3 feet tall and wide, depending on the species and cultivar
Bloom timeProduces delicate, bell-shaped flowers on tall stems in the summer or early fall
Light requirementsPrefers partial shade to full sun, depending on the species and cultivar
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
Watering needsModerate watering, allow the soil to dry partially between watering sessions
TemperatureThrives in cool to moderate temperatures, between 50°F (10°C) and 80°F (27°C)
HumidityPrefers moderate humidity levels, but can tolerate drier conditions
ToxicityGenerally non-toxic to humans and pets, but can cause mild irritation if ingested.

6. Caladium (Caladium spp.)

These tropical plants are known for their large, heart-shaped leaves. Many varieties feature purple and green patterns, making them a popular choice for gardens and indoor spaces.

Caladium
Photo: Etsy
Scientific nameCaladium spp.
Common namesAngel Wings, Elephant Ear, Heart of Jesus
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial that grows from tubers
Foliage colorComes in a variety of colors, including green, pink, red, white, and variegated
Leaf shapeLarge, heart-shaped leaves with pointed tips and prominent veins
Mature sizeCan grow up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall and wide, depending on the species and cultivar
Bloom timeProduces small, inconspicuous flowers on tall spikes, but is mainly grown for its foliage
Light requirementsPrefers bright, indirect light or partial shade, but can tolerate some direct sun
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
Watering needsModerate to high watering needs, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C), but can tolerate cooler temperatures
HumidityPrefers high humidity levels, and can be grown indoors or outdoors with proper care
ToxicityCaladium is considered toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation in some people.

7. Purple Heart (Setcreasea pallida)

This hardy plant features long, narrow leaves that are a deep purple color. It is easy to grow and can thrive in a range of lighting conditions.

Purple Heart
Photo: Ohio Tropics
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameTradescantia pallida
Common namesPurple Heart, Setcreasea
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial or annual
Foliage colorLong, narrow leaves that are purple or deep burgundy in color
Leaf shapeLong and pointed, with a slightly succulent texture
Mature sizeCan grow up to 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall and 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) wide, depending on growing conditions
Bloom timeProduces small, pink or purple flowers on short stems in the summer or fall
Light requirementsPrefers bright, indirect light or partial shade, but can tolerate some direct sun
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
Watering needsModerate watering, allow the soil to dry partially between watering sessions
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 85°F (29°C)
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity levels, but can tolerate drier conditions
ToxicityPurple Heart is generally non-toxic to humans and pets, but can cause mild irritation if ingested.

8. Red Rubin Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Red Rubin’)

This variety of basil features deep purple leaves with a hint of green. It is a popular choice for herb gardens and adds a unique twist to classic dishes.

Red Rubin Basil
Photo: Stein’s Garden & Home
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameOcimum basilicum ‘Red Rubin’
Common namesRed Rubin Basil, Purple Basil
Plant typeHerbaceous annual or tender perennial herb
Foliage colorDark red-purple, with a glossy texture
Leaf shapeOval, with slightly serrated edges
Mature sizeCan grow up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall, and up to 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) wide
Bloom timeProduces small, white or pink flowers in the summer, but is mainly grown for its foliage
Light requirementsPrefers full sun to partial shade, but can tolerate some shade
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0)
Watering needsModerate watering, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 85°F (29°C)
HumidityPrefers moderate humidity levels, but can tolerate drier conditions
ToxicityRed Rubin Basil is generally considered safe for human consumption.

9. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

While not all varieties of lavender have purple and green leaves, some, such as Lavandula x intermedia ‘Provence,’ do. This plant is prized for its fragrant flowers and foliage and is a popular choice for gardens and aromatherapy.

Lavender
Photo: SummerWinds Nursery
FeatureDescription
Scientific nameLavandula spp.
Common namesLavender
Plant typeHerbaceous perennial
Foliage colorGray-green or silver-green leaves
Leaf shapeNarrow and elongated, with a slightly fuzzy texture
Mature sizeCan grow up to 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) tall and wide, depending on the species and cultivar
Bloom timeProduces fragrant, lavender-purple or white flowers on tall spikes in the summer or fall
Light requirementsPrefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade
Soil requirementsWell-draining soil, enriched with organic matter, and slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.0-8.0)
Watering needsModerate watering, allow the soil to dry partially between watering sessions
TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (27°C), and can tolerate some cold
HumidityPrefers dry to moderate humidity levels
ToxicityLavender is generally considered safe for human consumption and non-toxic to pets.

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