Purple coleus

Purple is one of the deepest coleus colors and the tones run dark. Here you will find the varieties that range from burgundy to purple-black. All are grown from true to type seeds, so every plant gets its variety's colors and traits.

Which purple variety should you choose?

Purple in coleus comes in deep dark tones. The varieties range from compact to real giants.

• Black Dragon – our darkest variety. Purple-black leaves with a ruby-red center and a velvety surface.
• Giant Exhibition Magma – burgundy giant leaves with a broad speckled edge in chartreuse.
• Giant Exhibition Palisandra – velvety giant leaves in burgundy.

How to get the deepest purple color

More light means more purple pigment, and more pigment means deeper color. If the plant is in too dark a spot, the green starts to show through and the purple fades. Place the plant in partial shade and the color keeps its full glow all season. You'll find more about placement in Coleus in the sun.

Otherwise you care for purple coleus just like any other coleus. Cut off flower buds when they appear and feel free to pinch the plant so it grows bushy and dense. The full guide is in Coleus care.

Frequently asked questions

Are there purple coleus?

Yes. Purple in coleus means deep dark tones. Varieties like Black Dragon, Giant Exhibition Magma and Giant Exhibition Palisandra have purple in their leaves and they are grown from seed just like other coleus.

Why is my purple coleus fading?

Usually it comes down to light. If the plant is in too dark a spot, it produces less purple pigment and the green starts to show through. Move it to a brighter spot and the color comes back.

Which coleus is the most purple?

Black Dragon is the variety where the purple runs deepest. The leaves are purple-black with a ruby-red center.