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21 Gorgeous Shrubs with Purple Flowers

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You don’t want your garden to look dull and dead? You want it to be VIBRANT, right?

Well, what better to make that happen than a bush with purple flowers?

There are hundreds of shrubs out there to pick from. Few of them have purple flowers. Even fewer will look good in your flower bed.

We wanted to cut down that list, so we decided to bring the most BEAUTIFUL and EASIEST-TO-GROW shrub varieties. Below, you’ll find EVERYTHING you need to know about each species. Check them up!

The 21 Best Shrubs with Purple Flowers

#1. Abelia (Abelia)

Abelia (Abelia)

We’re starting with a strong contender: Abelias.

It is a top alternative because it is cold-hardy, it is not too large or too small, and still manages to produce cute purple flowers.

Just be aware there are more than 30 varieties of abelias. Most of them produce either purple or pinkish blossoms. The ‘Mardi Gras’ and ‘Edward Goucher’ varieties, for example, have these purple beauties.

The best part about this species is the ability to grow under full sun or partial shade, reach up to 5 feet and withstand temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
You will also love its shrubby shape in any garden or landscape border.

DON’T FORGET: It is not an invasive species like many other shrubs, so you can grow it pretty much anywhere without a single worry.

#2. Azalea (Rhododendron)

Azalea (Rhododendron)

When we talk about Instagrammable bushes, few fit the quota like Azaleas.

Also known as the Rhododendron by its botanical name, this plant is GORGEOUS – to say the least.
It is not a big shrub, growing a maximum of 6 feet. You won’t need to keep it under the sun at all times either. And because it has a shrubby shape, the plant fits almost anywhere in your garden.

What sets the Azalea apart is the STUNNING array of purple flowers. Alongside the uniquely shaped leaves and the dense foliage, you can find azaleas to make any place a lot cuter (especially in the summer, their blooming time).

WHAT ELSE TO KNOW: Various azalea species produce purple flowers, like the ‘Gerard,’ ‘Autumn Amethyst,’ and the ‘Formosa.’ Others may not, so pick carefully.

#3. Bluebeard (Caryopteris)

Bluebeard (Caryopteris)

You can grow Bluebeards almost anywhere. That’s amazing.

The plant withstands temperatures as high as 60 degrees Fahrenheit but can still survive in places at 0 degrees (it may go dormant).

But sure enough, it is the array of flowers that you’ll love the most. Growing in small bunches that form gorgeous pricky flowers, you’ll find it an irresistible addition to your backyard.

Like other shrubs, it blooms in the summer (probably late, almost in fall). The bloom can look anywhere from light purple to blueish.

THERE’S SOME MORE: The foliage is remarkably light, with a pale green that adds up to any place’s loveliness.

#4. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea)

Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea)

You can call it a climbing plant or a shrub – either way, the Bougainvillea is STRIKINGLY attractive.

First and foremost, the flowers. Known as bracts, these enlarged stems bloom in the summer and may last up to the winter without problems.

Still, the exciting part is how far it can grow. As a standalone shrub, it can reach 5 to 8 feet easily.

But as a climbing vine, you can find this plant at up to 30 feet high.

At such a height, the flowers look INSANE.

But there’s a lot more to enjoy: it is drought-tolerant, loves the sun and heat, and still grows super-quick, so you won’t have to spend more than a year to enjoy those gorgeous flowers.

PLUS: You can grow it in places as cold as 10 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is cold-hardy and pretty sturdy.

#5. Butterfly Bush (Buddleia spp.)

Butterfly Bush (Buddleia spp.)

Butterfly bushes are AMAZING. There’s no other way to describe these shrubby plants.

Evergreen rarely produces such a beautiful combination of gorgeous foliage and unbeatable blossoms. They’re so attractive that even butterflies love them (THAT’S WHERE THE NAME COMES FROM).

Sure enough, the plant is also sturdy – withstanding temperatures under 0 degrees Fahrenheit and requiring little to no maintenance.

But if there’s something to love, that would be the spiky shape of the flowers. Available in all kinds of purple shades, this is a bush that never disappoints.

WORTH KNOWING: It can grow to over 15 feet depending on the species, making it less of a shrub and more of a small tree in some cases.

#6. Caradonna Salvia (Salvia nemorosa)

Caradonna Salvia (Salvia nemorosa)

You will think it’s lavender or mint, but it’s neither.
Known as the Salvia, specifically, the Caradonna variety grows gorgeous blossoms in a stalky fashion.

There’s nothing about this bushy plant to hate: it doesn’t grow much, so it makes for a fantastic garden cover or landscape border. The flowers are dark-purple and withstand temperatures under 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

And let’s not forget you can also grow it in humid environments, including water gardens and the like.

IF THAT WASN’T ENOUGH: You will see the flowers all the way from the start of the summer up to mid-fall, making it one of the longest-blossoming shrubs.

#7. Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia spp.)

Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia spp.)

Grows in warm areas as well as lightly cold ones, the Crepe Myrtle will never disappoint you.

It is a sturdy plant, which comes like a great feature considering how BEAUTIFUL it is. Those purple-to-pink flowers and vibrant light-green leaves make any place stand out.

These flowers are also long-lasting, starting at about summer and lasting past fall.

As for growth, you can find it as small as 5 feet with a dense shrubby appearance or as large as 15 feet, making it more of a tree. Either way, it looks stunning when the flowers arrive.

INTERESTING FACT: The name comes from the ruffled leaves, as they look similar to crepe paper.

#8. Golden Dewdrops (Duranta erecta)

Golden Dewdrops (Duranta erecta)

Calling this shrub cute would be an understatement.

Giving off shrubby vibes and with the most attractive purple tones, the Golden Dewdrops come from the drooping viny stems it produces. These stems eventually bloom, delivering a painstakingly appealing look.

The plant grows pretty much anywhere as long as temperatures stay over 10 degrees Fahrenheit. With full sun exposure and a moist environment, it thrives.

One exciting part comes from the broad leaves. The thick and broad foliage makes up for its shrubby appearance, even though it can get to over 15 feet tall.

DON’T FOOL YOURSELF: it can also grow small. Many people love it as a household plant, as it can stay as small as 2 feet in cold environments.

#9. Heather (Calluna vulgaris)

Heather (Calluna vulgaris)

When someone says ‘shrub with purple flowers,’ we instantly think of Heather. And it wouldn’t be a mistake.

This small yet lovely species grows to no more than 4 feet, produces tiny purple flowers in spiky stalks, and grows pretty much anywhere. This includes temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

But don’t think it’s a picky species. A heather plant will grow even in low-quality environments with nutrient-deficient soils too, making it an even better choice (it’s also low maintenance!)

WHAT’S MORE: It grows super-quick without being invasive. The small shrub will stay in place, so you won’t have to prune it too much.

#10. Heliotrope (Heliotrope spp.)

Heliotrope (Heliotrope spp.)

Live in a warm area where temperatures rarely go under 30 degrees Fahrenheit? Give the Heliotrope bush a chance, then.

This small shrub variety grows surprisingly low at no more than 4 feet, produces deep-purple flowers, and grows in temperatures as high as 70 degrees.

But if there’s something to love, that would be the bunchy flowers. Vibrant and shiny when the sun hits, they are a sight to behold when the summer arrives.

BE CAREFUL: It is slightly poisonous to children and pets, so be careful where you plant it to avoid issues later on.

#11. Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)

Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)

People call it the acidic plant because it loves soils with pH levels at 5.5 or lower (where the flowers get a lively purple tone).

It grows pretty much anywhere, as it doesn’t require much maintenance and grows in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit (as long as it receives consistent sun exposure).

What’s even better, you can grow it indoors if you want as it doesn’t extend far from 4 feet in most cases. It can still reach over 15 feet outdoors.

NOT TO DISMISS: There are over 20 varieties of Hydrangea, with flowers going from deep purple to light blue, orange, and even yellow – so there’s enough for everyone.

#12. Lavender (Lavendula)

 Lavender (Lavendula)

Who wants to keep their garden smelling crazy good?

That’s where lavender enters the frame – an aromatic purple perennial to give your landscape a unique fragrance.

Grow a few of these shrubs to enjoy the most purple of all flowers. These stalky blossoms grow to about 3 feet and can grow super-quick, covering large areas in little time.

But you can also grow lavender in pots if you want, still enjoying the beauty and scent it offers. As long as it receives consistent sunlight, the plant will thrive.

WORTHWHILE FACT: The most popular type of lavender is dark purple, but you may also find the flower featuring colors like yellow and red in different stages.

#13. Lilac Bush (Syringa vulgaris)

Lilac Bush (Syringa vulgaris)

Few shrubs are as easy to grow as the Lilac. And even with such simplicity, Lilacs are among the most beautiful too.

Some lilacs can reach 15 feet in size, but you’re more likely to find it between 5 and 10 feet. As a big shrub, it is one of the densest too, covering entire landscapes without problems.

The flowers are outstandingly gorgeous, often with lovely light-purple tones. This matches the heart-shaped leaves with their vibrant green.

As for growth, it can withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want it to stay healthy, ensure no more than 50 degrees.
Still, it requires full sun and moist soil to thrive.

DON’T FORGET THIS: The flowers grow in pinnacles that can reach over 8 inches long while growing upright (they will catch anyone’s attention at first sight).

#14. Magnolia (Magnolia)

Magnolia (Magnolia)

Want to get in love with a shrub? Look no further than a Magnolia.

It is not a coincidence it is such a sought-after plant and popular with novelists. The plant is incredibly striking. The light-purple flowers and their sparse leaves add up to an impossible-to-hate plant.

You’ll also love how far it grows. A typical magnolia shrub reaches between 5 and 10 feet. You can keep it smaller with constant pruning, which should boost blooms.

Having said that, it is the aromatic flower that stands out – sometimes boasting a white and pink tone as it comes directly from a dream.
It is not hard to grow as long as you keep it over 0 degrees Fahrenheit and with decent moisture.

JUST REMEMBER: The flowers only appear once a year and last about a month. Despite that, they’re totally worth it.

#15. Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)

Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)

A shrubby variety that can reach 12 feet in height, the Rose of Sharon achieves either a light-purple or pinkish tone per bloom.

This gives up its name. The Sharon comes from how beautifully feminine the roses can be, adding to any garden’s appeal.

Its leaves are super cute as well, with a ruffled appearance that gives maple vibes.

You can grow it on a garden bed as a standalone plant or as a landscape border in any environment. As long as temperatures stay over 10 degrees Fahrenheit, it will thrive.

IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER: The flowers appear in early June and can last until late October, so you’re getting over 4 months of blooming with the Rose of Sharon.

#16. Rugosa Rose (Rosa Rugosa)

Rugosa Rose (Rosa Rugosa)

One of the rarest types of flowers, the Rugosa boasts a purple-to-light-pink flower tone that astounds people.

Like most roses, it features a shrubby appearance that’s difficult not to love. Often measuring less than 7 feet, it can fit in most gardens (even super-small ones).

But if there’s something to truly appreciate, that would be its cold-hardy vegetation. The plant can withstand temperatures of -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it generally prefers sandy environments with decent warmth.

As a great thing to have, the flowers tend to last over 4 months (from early May to September).

TO MAKE IT EVEN BETTER: You don’t have to be sad when the roses disappear, as the plant also produces rose hips (a red fruit that adds color to the foliage).

#17. Russian Sage (Salvia yangii)

Russian Sage (Salvia yangii)

If you were to grow sage, you wouldn’t ever get the beautiful light-purple flowers the Russian Sage offers.

The name comes from its origin, so you can expect it to be a decently cold-hardy plant (it withstands 0 degrees Fahrenheit).

Apart from that, the foliage is super-good-looking, featuring a pale gray-green tone that’s easy to appreciate.

Alongside its colors, you can expect it to be a piece of cake to grow. It can reach a bit over 5 feet high while still boasting an attractive bushy appearance.

THE BEST ABOUT IT: The purple flowers are spiky, reaching even higher than the foliage, making it difficult to dismiss.

#18. Spirea (Spirea Japonica)

Spirea (Spirea Japonica)

You won’t find any shrub as deserving of the name as the Spirea, the bushiest of all bushes.
It is not a large variety, generally staying within 6 feet of height. This pairs up with its round-shaped growing habit and dense light-green foliage with small leaves. Doesn’t that scream of a bush?

To make it even more appealing, you will find the light-purple flowers in spring to be remarkable.

While these flowers only last a month or two, you can still enjoy the beauty of these small but bunchy flowers. They make any place outstandingly more attractive.

As for needs, you can grow it as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit and expect it to prefer partial shade over full-sun exposure.

KNOW THIS: The flowers may bloom again later in the summer if you’re lucky. This happens mostly in warm temperatures of about 50 degrees.

#19. Winter Heath (Erica spp.)

Winter Heath (Erica spp.)

Among the densest shrubs, the Winter Heath builds up your garden like no other variety.
It is a fast-growing species, grows in many different areas, and cares little about humidity.

But be aware, it needs a lot of sun exposure to grow if you want it healthy.

As an upside, the plant blooms BEAUTIFULLY. Tiny clusters of flowers with bell-shaped petals will grab anyone’s attention at first sight. And that’s without mentioning the eye-catching colors.

Plus, it is a small variety, growing not more than 3 to 5 feet in most cases – so it fits practically anywhere.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST: The name comes from its unique ability to bloom in WINTER. Yes, you read that right. It’s a perfect winter garden plant to have.

#20. Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)

Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)

Everyone knows about the Wisteria tree, but few know about the shrub.

Just like its giant cousin, the shrubby version is STUNNING.

When the drooping stems bloom and the purple flowers appear, the plant will feel like a game-changer at home.

There’s a lot more to enjoy: like its fast-growing capacity. You can see the main trunk reaching over 20 feet. But with constant pruning, you can keep it at under 6 feet with ease.

The colors will blow your mind, especially when the summer arrives and the flowers start to drop.

SURPRISING FACT: It is a very cold-hardy plant, surviving temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

#21. Weigela (Weigela)

Weigela (Weigela)

Like taken out of a classical paint, the Weigela boosts any garden’s beauty to the highest level.
It’s a fast-growing variety, as you can expect it to be fully grown within a few years. You can see it at up to 5 feet in some cases, but it mostly stays within 3 feet.

The exciting part comes from the dense foliage, boasting a vibrant green that’s difficult to ignore.

Some varieties of the Weigela have variegated leaves, making them even more attractive.

And if all that wasn’t enough, you can grow it in places with temperatures as low as -10 degrees

Fahrenheit. Give it 8 hours of sun exposure, and it will thrive effortlessly.

CHECK THIS: The funnel-shaped flowers can go from dark purple to light pink and cover the entire bush from top to bottom.

Get Your Own Purple-Blooming Shrub!

Don’t wait for shrubs to grow by themselves and out of nowhere. If you genuinely want a bush with purple flowers, pick one from the above list, and you’ll have it all.

With so many spectacular blossoms to choose from, you’ll have a blast going over them before deciding. Just make sure it’s a shrub that will grow in your garden, SO BE CAREFUL!

Whatever you pick, having a shrub with purple blossoms is never a bad idea. You’ll be glad of this choice in a few months!

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