Searching for the best purple houseplants can feel overwhelming with so many options available. The African Violet stands out as a classic, vibrant choice, while the Purple Passion Gynura offers lush, deep purple foliage for a bold look. Trade and pet-friendly varieties like the Pet Safe Purple Prayer Plant combine safety with striking color. The main tradeoffs involve balancing vibrant color, ease of care, and safety for pets. Continue reading for an in-depth comparison that will help you pick the right purple plant for your space.
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Key Takeaways
- The most vibrant purple shades often require specific lighting and care to thrive.
- Many top picks blend striking foliage with pet-safe or easy-care qualities, catering to different needs.
- Size and potting requirements vary widely, influencing placement options in your home.
- A few varieties, like Tradescantia, are more forgiving for beginners, while others demand more attention.
- Price and availability can impact your choice, with some plants being more budget-friendly or seasonal.
| African Violet Live Plant – 4 Inch Pot, Indoor Houseplant with Purple Flowers |  | Best Overall for Easy Care and Year-Round Blooms | Size: 4 inch pot | Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight | Watering Needs: Keep soil evenly moist; water when the top inch of soil feels dry | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purple Passion Gynura – 2 Live Plants in 2″ Pots – Indoor Houseplant |  | Best for Trailing Displays and Easy Propagation | Plant Type: Gynura sarmentosa | Pot Size: 2 inches | Number of Plants: 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Tradescantia Zebrina Live Plants Pack of 10 Purple Wandering Jew |  | Best for Bulk and Low-Maintenance Indoor Greenery | Quantity: 10 plants | Plant Type: Tradescantia Zebrina | Foliage Color: Purple and Silver | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pet Safe Purple Prayer Plant (Calathea Roseopicta) in 6″ Grower Pot, Pet-Friendly Houseplant |  | Best for Pet Owners Seeking Air Purifying Foliage | Plant Type: Calathea Roseopicta | Pot Size: 6 inches | Features: Pet safe, Air purifying, Low light tolerant | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purple Passion Plant – Royal Velvet – 2 Live Starter Plants – Gynura Aurantica |  | Best for Striking Foliage and Easy Indoor Care | Plant Type: Gynura Aurantica | Number of Plants: 2 starter plants | Light Requirements: Bright, indirect light | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purple Passion Live House Plant, 5-8 Inch Tall, Easy to Grow Indoor Houseplant for Home & Office, Vibrant Purple Velvet Foliage |  | Best Overall | Height: 5-8 inches | Plant Type: Live houseplant | Foliage: Purple velvet, fuzzy green leaves | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 12 Live Tradescantia Cuttings – Zebrina, Pistachio & Purple Heart Mix |  | Best for Propagation & Variety | Varieties: Zebrina, Pistachio, Purple Heart | Quantity: 12 cuttings | Grown in: USA | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Organic Purple Heart Plant, Tradescantia pallida, Live Plant in 3-inch Pot |  | Best Organic & Versatile | Type: Live Plant | Size: 3-inch pot | Color: Purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Tradescantia Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’) – Live Potted Plant |  | Best Deep Purple Foliage | Size: 4-inch pot | Zones: 9-10 | Color: Deep purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purple Heart Tradescantia Live Plant, Indoor Wandering Jew, 5 Cuttings |  | Best for Trailing & Indoor Decor | Plant Type: Tradescantia (Wandering Jew) | Number of Cuttings: 5 | Foliage Color: Deep purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| purple houseplant | Plant Type |
|---|---|
| African Violet Live Plant | — |
| Purple Passion Gynura | Gynura sarmentosa |
| Tradescantia Zebrina Live Plan | Tradescantia Zebrina |
| Pet Safe Purple Prayer Plant | Calathea Roseopicta |
| Purple Passion Plant | Gynura Aurantica |
| Purple Passion Live House Plan | Live houseplant |
| 12 Live Tradescantia Cuttings | — |
| Organic Purple Heart Plant | — |
| Tradescantia Purple Heart | — |
| Purple Heart Tradescantia Live | Tradescantia (Wandering Jew) |
More Details on Our Top Picks
African Violet Live Plant – 4 Inch Pot, Indoor Houseplant with Purple Flowers
This African Violet stands out for its compact size and consistent purple blooms, making it an excellent choice for small spaces. Compared to the Purple Passion Gynura, it offers vibrant flowers rather than striking foliage, which appeals more to those who want color without extensive maintenance. Its ease of care—requiring only bright, indirect light and regular watering—makes it suitable for beginners, though it demands consistent moisture and bright conditions that might be challenging in lower-light homes. The plant’s year-round blooming is a major advantage, but its sensitivity to uneven watering can be a drawback for those prone to neglect. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for apartment dwellers or office workers seeking reliable, colorful decor that’s manageable with minimal gardening experience.
Pros:- Compact size perfect for small spaces
- Produces vibrant purple flowers year-round
- Easy to care for, suited for beginners
- Organic, organic growing medium
Cons:- Requires consistent watering to prevent drying out
- Needs bright, indirect sunlight, which might not be available everywhere
Best for: Beginners and small-space decorators looking for vibrant, low-maintenance purple blooms
Not ideal for: Homes with inconsistent lighting or those who prefer foliage over flowers, as it needs specific light and watering routines
- Size:4 inch pot
- Light Requirements:Bright, indirect sunlight
- Watering Needs:Keep soil evenly moist; water when the top inch of soil feels dry
- Blooming Period:Throughout the year
- Material:Organic
Our verdict“This African Violet is ideal for those seeking reliable, colorful blooms in compact indoor settings with minimal fuss.”
Purple Passion Gynura – 2 Live Plants in 2″ Pots – Indoor Houseplant
The Purple Passion Gynura offers velvety purple leaves that cascade beautifully, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or trailing arrangements. Compared to the African Violet, which features blooms, this plant emphasizes foliage as its main appeal, giving a lush, textured look to indoor decor. Its ease of propagation from cuttings and moderate care needs make it suitable for gardeners who enjoy expanding their collection or creating lush displays. However, it requires bright, indirect light to keep its vibrant color and benefits from regular pinching to maintain fullness, which could be a hassle for less attentive plant owners. It’s perfect for those who want a striking, easy-to-grow trailing plant but are prepared to give it the right light and occasional maintenance.
Pros:- Vibrant, velvety purple foliage
- Easy to propagate from cuttings
- Ideal for hanging baskets and trailing displays
- Thrives in bright, indirect light
Cons:- Requires bright, indirect light for optimal color
- Needs regular pinching to maintain shape
- Small orange flowers only appear with proper warmth
Best for: Plant enthusiasts who enjoy propagating and creating trailing displays in bright indoor spaces
Not ideal for: People with low-light environments or those unwilling to prune regularly to keep the plant bushy
- Plant Type:Gynura sarmentosa
- Pot Size:2 inches
- Number of Plants:2
- Light Requirements:Bright, indirect light
- Watering:Moderate
- Growth Habit:Trailing
Our verdict“This trailing purple plant is best for those who want an easy-to-maintain, lush display that can be propagated and shaped over time.”
Tradescantia Zebrina Live Plants Pack of 10 Purple Wandering Jew
This pack of 10 Tradescantia Zebrina plants offers a budget-friendly way to fill indoor spaces with striking purple and silver foliage. Compared with the Purple Passion Gynura, which is more delicate and requires specific pruning, the Zebrina is highly adaptable and forgiving, thriving with minimal attention. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets or shelf displays, and the vibrant foliage adds visual interest without demanding much care. The main tradeoff is the need for bright light to maintain its variegation, and it may need regular watering to stay healthy, which could be challenging for very busy households. Overall, this set makes the most sense for those who want a versatile, visually striking plant collection without high maintenance requirements.
Pros:- Includes 10 healthy rooted plants
- Vivid purple and silver variegation
- Low-maintenance and suitable for beginners
- Perfect for small spaces and indoor decor
Cons:- Needs bright light for best color
- May require regular watering
- Limited outdoor use in colder climates
Best for: Indoor gardeners who want a large, colorful plant collection at a reasonable price and with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Those in very low-light environments or who prefer flowering plants over foliage
- Quantity:10 plants
- Plant Type:Tradescantia Zebrina
- Foliage Color:Purple and Silver
- Growth Habit:Trailing
- Indoor Use:Yes
Our verdict“This bulk pack of Tradescantia Zebrina is ideal for creating a vibrant, easy-care indoor garden on a budget.”
Pet Safe Purple Prayer Plant (Calathea Roseopicta) in 6″ Grower Pot, Pet-Friendly Houseplant
The Purple Prayer Plant brings vibrant purple tones to a pet-friendly design, standing out because of its non-toxic status to cats and dogs. Unlike the previous trailing plants, this Calathea offers a bold, patterned leaf that adds visual interest even when not in bloom. It also purifies indoor air, which enhances its value as a houseplant. While it tolerates low to bright indirect light, it demands consistent watering and humidity, which may be a challenge indoors, especially in dry climates. Compared to the Gynura, which has velvety leaves, the Calathea’s striking pattern and pet safety make it a top choice for households with animals. Its sensitivity to overwatering means it’s better suited for attentive plant owners.
Pros:- Pet safe for cats and dogs
- Vibrant purple, patterned foliage
- Effective air purifier
- Tolerant of low to bright indirect light
Cons:- Requires consistent watering and humidity
- Can be sensitive to overwatering
- Needs attention to prevent leaf browning
Best for: Pet owners seeking colorful, safe, air-purifying foliage that adds vibrancy without toxicity risks
Not ideal for: People who prefer low-maintenance plants or have inconsistent watering habits, as it needs regular attention to prevent leaf browning
- Plant Type:Calathea Roseopicta
- Pot Size:6 inches
- Features:Pet safe, Air purifying, Low light tolerant
- Toxicity:Non-toxic to pets
Our verdict“This Calathea is best for pet-friendly homes that desire striking, air-purifying foliage with manageable but attentive care.”
Purple Passion Plant – Royal Velvet – 2 Live Starter Plants – Gynura Aurantica
The Purple Passion Plant, under the Gynura Aurantica variety, offers eye-catching velvety leaves with deep green and bold purple hairs that glow under indirect light. Unlike the more delicate Gynura in the earlier picks, this plant’s quick growth rate and vibrant foliage make it a focal point for indoor decor. It thrives with consistent moisture and light pruning, which helps keep its cascading shape. Compared to the African Violet, which blooms reliably but in a limited size, the Purple Passion provides a larger, more textured statement. Its sensitivity to direct sunlight can diminish color, so placement is key. This plant is perfect for those who want bold foliage with minimal fuss, yet require regular watering and pruning for best results.
Pros:- Vibrant purple and green foliage
- Velvety texture adds tactile interest
- Quick-growing and easy to care for
- Ideal for hanging displays or as focal points
Cons:- Sensitive to direct sunlight which can diminish color
- Requires regular watering
- Needs pruning to maintain shape
Best for: Indoor decorators seeking bold, velvety foliage with easy care routines and quick growth
Not ideal for: Those with direct sunlight exposure or who prefer flowering plants over textured foliage
- Plant Type:Gynura Aurantica
- Number of Plants:2 starter plants
- Light Requirements:Bright, indirect light
- Watering:Keep soil slightly moist
- Soil:Well-draining, loose soil
- Growth Rate:Quick
Our verdict“This plant appeals to those wanting bold, velvety foliage that makes an instant visual impact with straightforward care routines.”
Purple Passion Live House Plant, 5-8 Inch Tall, Easy to Grow Indoor Houseplant for Home & Office, Vibrant Purple Velvet Foliage
The Purple Passion stands out for its striking purple velvet foliage, providing an instant pop of color in any indoor setting. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for beginners, especially compared to the more delicate Organic Purple Heart Plant, which requires more attention in colder zones. While the Purple Passion arrives as a well-rooted starter, it demands bright, indirect sunlight and consistent watering to keep its vibrant color. The fact that it arrives without a pot means added setup work, but this flexibility allows for personalized styling. This plant offers a compelling combination of visual impact and ease of care, making it a versatile choice for both home and office environments. However, it’s less forgiving if placed in low light or if watering routines are inconsistent.
Pros:- Vibrant purple velvet foliage adds striking visual appeal
- Low maintenance, suitable for beginners
- Versatile placement options (planters, hanging baskets, tabletops)
Cons:- Requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal color
- Needs consistent watering to stay healthy
- Arrives without a pot, requiring immediate repotting
Best for: Beginners or busy homeowners seeking a vibrant, easy-care purple houseplant
Not ideal for: Those looking for a low-maintenance plant that tolerates lower light levels or irregular watering
- Height:5-8 inches
- Plant Type:Live houseplant
- Foliage:Purple velvet, fuzzy green leaves
- Care Level:Low maintenance
- Placement:Indoor, bright indirect sunlight
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for newcomers who want a bold purple statement plant that’s easy to care for with minimal fuss.”
12 Live Tradescantia Cuttings – Zebrina, Pistachio & Purple Heart Mix
This bundle offers a spectrum of purple and variegated foliage with 12 healthy Tradescantia cuttings, including Zebrina, Pistachio, and Purple Heart varieties. Compared to single potted plants like the Tradescantia Purple Heart (B0CCN3TB7Q), this set provides a quick way to grow multiple plants or propagate for sharing. The cuttings root easily, making them a great choice for gardeners eager to expand their collection or experiment with different purple shades. However, they require proper watering and care during rooting, and some may take a few weeks to establish fully. Indoor growers should note that these cuttings prefer bright, indirect light but can adapt to various indoor environments. This option maximizes variety and propagation potential, especially for those wanting a lush, purple-dominated display.
Pros:- Includes three vibrant foliage varieties for diversity
- Easy to root and fast-growing
- Healthy, fresh cuttings suitable for propagation
Cons:- Requires consistent watering and care during rooting
- Some cuttings may take time to fully establish
- Indoor use may limit outdoor exposure
Best for: Gardeners interested in propagation or adding multiple purple-hued plants simultaneously
Not ideal for: Individuals seeking immediate, full-grown plants or those unwilling to care for cuttings during rooting
- Varieties:Zebrina, Pistachio, Purple Heart
- Quantity:12 cuttings
- Grown in:USA
Our verdict“This set is perfect for those wanting to cultivate a variety of purple plants with the fun and rewarding process of propagation.”
Organic Purple Heart Plant, Tradescantia pallida, Live Plant in 3-inch Pot
The Organic Purple Heart offers a beautiful, pesticide-free option with vibrant purple foliage and magenta flowers, making it a charming addition to both indoor and outdoor spaces. Compared with the Tradescantia Purple Heart (B0CCN3TB7Q), which is more suited for outdoor zones 9-10, this organic version is versatile and safe for environments with pets or children. Its drought-tolerant nature means it needs less frequent watering, but it does require a bit of space for its trailing habit and may need overwintering indoors if temperatures drop below its hardiness zones 7-11. Its low-maintenance profile is ideal for busy gardeners, although it’s less suitable for those who want plants that thrive in low-light conditions. This plant excels in offering organic purity and flexible placement options.
Pros:- Organic and pesticide-free, safe for pets
- Drought tolerant and low maintenance
- Versatile for indoor and outdoor environments
Cons:- May need indoor overwintering in colder zones
- Trailing habit requires space for full display
- Might need supplemental fertilization for optimal growth
Best for: Pet owners or gardeners seeking an organic, low-maintenance purple plant suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Not ideal for: People with limited space or those who want a plant with a more upright growth habit
- Type:Live Plant
- Size:3-inch pot
- Color:Purple
- Hardiness Zones:7-11
- Light Exposure:Full Sun to Bright Indirect Light
- Water Needs:Moderate to Dry
Our verdict“This organic Purple Heart is a flexible, pet-safe choice for gardeners prioritizing natural, low-maintenance plants with outdoor adaptability.”
Tradescantia Purple Heart (Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’) – Live Potted Plant
The Tradescantia Purple Heart in a 4-inch pot is celebrated for its deep, rich purple foliage, making it a visually striking plant for indoor or outdoor use in zones 9-10. It’s a quick-growing, easy-to-propagate plant that lends itself well to landscaping or as a houseplant, especially compared to the more delicate Purple Passion. For optimal color, it prefers partial to full sun, which can be a limiting factor in shaded indoor environments. Its vibrant hue, combined with its ease of propagation, makes it suitable for gardeners who want a lush, purple statement. However, it requires protection in cooler zones and may need supplemental light indoors. This plant is ideal for those seeking a bold, easy-care purple foliage plant with outdoor potential.
Pros:- Vibrant deep purple foliage
- Easy to grow and propagate
- Suitable for outdoor and bright indoor spaces
Cons:- Requires partial to full sun for best color
- May need protection in colder zones
- Less tolerant of low light
Best for: Gardeners wanting a robust, deep purple foliage plant for outdoor zones or bright indoor spaces
Not ideal for: Indoor growers with low-light conditions or those in colder zones without protection
- Size:4-inch pot
- Zones:9-10
- Color:Deep purple
Our verdict“This deep purple Tradescantia is perfect for those in warm zones or with bright indoor light who want a bold, easy-to-maintain plant.”
Purple Heart Tradescantia Live Plant, Indoor Wandering Jew, 5 Cuttings
This set of 5 Purple Heart Tradescantia cuttings offers an excellent way to add trailing purple foliage to indoor or outdoor spaces. Compared to the larger, potted Tradescantia pallida, these cuttings are ideal for propagation or filling in containers with a cascading effect. Their vibrant purple hue and trailing habit make them a favorite for hanging baskets or window sills. They root quickly in water or soil, making them accessible for gardeners of all levels. However, the plants may arrive with or without established roots, and they need bright, indirect light to develop their color fully. For those wanting a low-cost, flexible option that can be used in multiple ways, these cuttings are a smart choice, especially for creative arrangements. This set excels for propagation and trailing visual impact.
Pros:- Easy to propagate and grow
- Vibrant purple foliage adds decorative appeal
- Versatile for indoor and outdoor use
Cons:- Plants may arrive with or without roots
- Requires bright, indirect light for best color
- Dependent on proper care during rooting
Best for: Beginners or experienced gardeners looking to propagate or create trailing displays indoors or in warm outdoor climates
Not ideal for: People who prefer established, full-sized plants or have low light conditions
- Plant Type:Tradescantia (Wandering Jew)
- Number of Cuttings:5
- Foliage Color:Deep purple
- Growth Habit:Trailing
- Propagation Method:Water or soil rooting
- Light Requirements:Bright, indirect light
Our verdict“This set of cuttings is perfect for propagation enthusiasts or those wanting a flexible, trailing purple plant for various spaces.”
How We Picked
In selecting the best purple houseplants, I focused on a combination of visual appeal, ease of care, safety, and versatility. I evaluated each plant’s growth requirements, resilience, and maintenance needs to ensure they suit a range of home environments. Plants were ranked based on their overall aesthetic impact, reliability, and how well they fit into common indoor spaces. I also considered customer feedback and availability to recommend options that balance quality and value, highlighting those that stand out for specific buyer priorities like beginner-friendliness or pet safety.| purple houseplant | Plant Type |
|---|---|
| African Violet Live Plant | — |
| Purple Passion Gynura | Gynura sarmentosa |
| Tradescantia Zebrina Live Plan | Tradescantia Zebrina |
| Pet Safe Purple Prayer Plant | Calathea Roseopicta |
| Purple Passion Plant | Gynura Aurantica |
| Purple Passion Live House Plan | Live houseplant |
| 12 Live Tradescantia Cuttings | — |
| Organic Purple Heart Plant | — |
| Tradescantia Purple Heart | — |
| Purple Heart Tradescantia Live | Tradescantia (Wandering Jew) |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Purple Houseplants
Choosing the right purple houseplant involves more than just color. It’s important to consider factors like lighting needs, maintenance level, safety, and size to ensure your plant thrives in your space. Understanding these broader considerations can help prevent common mistakes, such as choosing a plant that needs more sunlight than your home provides or one that requires frequent watering you can’t maintain.Lighting Requirements
Most purple houseplants prefer bright, indirect light, but some, like the African Violet, can tolerate lower light conditions. Knowing your home’s natural lighting helps you pick a plant that will remain vibrant without requiring complex artificial setups. Overexposing plants to direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while too little light can cause color fading and weak growth, so adjusting placement accordingly is key.
Ease of Care
If you’re new to houseplants, look for varieties known for low maintenance, such as Tradescantia or the Purple Prayer Plant. More delicate plants, like certain Gynura varieties, may need consistent watering and humidity control. Balancing your willingness to care for the plant with its needs ensures it remains healthy and vibrant without becoming a chore.
Safety for Pets
Pet safety is a major consideration if you have cats or dogs. Some purple plants, like the Purple Prayer Plant, are pet-safe, whereas others, including African Violets, are not. Choosing pet-friendly varieties can prevent accidental ingestion and potential health issues, making it essential to verify safety information before bringing a plant home.
Size and Growth Habit
Consider the space you have available. Smaller plants like the 4-inch African Violet fit well on shelves, while larger varieties like the Purple Passion Gynura can fill empty corners. Growth speed and mature size influence your long-term care plan, so select a plant that matches your space and maintenance capacity.
Price and Availability
Price varies based on plant rarity, size, and seller, impacting your budget. Some popular varieties might be seasonal or require special ordering, while others are readily available at local nurseries. Weighing cost against quality and your aesthetic goals helps ensure you get good value without sacrificing the look you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are purple houseplants suitable for low-light rooms?
Many purple houseplants, like African Violets and some Tradescantia varieties, can tolerate lower light levels, but their color intensity and health may suffer without adequate indirect light. For the best color vibrancy, placing these plants near east or west-facing windows is ideal. If light is limited, consider supplemental grow lights to maintain their vivid purple hues and overall vigor.
Which purple houseplants are safest for homes with pets?
Plants like the Purple Prayer Plant are known for being pet-safe, making them a good choice if you have cats or dogs. Conversely, varieties like African Violets, despite their name, are not pet-safe. Always check specific safety information before purchasing, and consider placing more toxic plants out of reach or choosing pet-friendly options to avoid accidental ingestion.
How often do I need to water purple houseplants?
Watering frequency depends on the specific plant and indoor conditions. Many purple plants, such as Tradescantia, prefer evenly moist soil but dislike overwatering, which can cause root rot. Plants like the Purple Prayer Plant typically need watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Establishing a consistent routine based on your plant’s needs prevents issues like wilting or fungal growth.
Can I grow purple houseplants in containers without drainage holes?
While it’s possible, using containers with drainage is generally better for purple houseplants to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. Excess moisture can lead to root rot and other problems. If you must use a container without drainage, be cautious with watering—use less and ensure the soil dries out between waterings to protect the plant’s health.
Are purple houseplants good for small apartments?
Absolutely, many purple houseplants like African Violets and small Tradescantia varieties are compact and well-suited for limited space. Their moderate size and forgiving care needs make them ideal for apartments or offices. Just ensure they receive appropriate light and aren’t placed in overly cramped conditions, which can hinder growth or cause stress.
Conclusion
For those seeking an all-around versatile and reliable choice, the African Violet offers vibrant purple blooms with manageable care, making it ideal for beginners. If budget is a concern, the Tradescantia Pallida provides striking foliage at a lower price point, suitable for those who want bold color without high maintenance. For pet owners or households with children, the Pet Safe Purple Prayer Plant makes a safe, colorful addition. Those looking for a touch of luxury should consider premium options like larger Gynura plants, which provide intense color and impressive size. Ultimately, your choice depends on your space, care capacity, and aesthetic preferences—matching the right purple plant to your lifestyle makes all the difference.Fall yard work Picks
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