The Beauty of Purple Succulents: Varieties and Care Tips

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If you’re a fan of succulents, consider adding some purple varieties to your collection. Purple succulents can add a unique color and texture to any indoor or outdoor space. From deep, almost black hues to soft lavender shades, there are a variety of purple succulents to choose from. 

In this post, we’ll explore some of the different types of purple succulents, their characteristics, and tips for growing and caring for them. 

So whether you’re a seasoned succulent enthusiast or just starting, read on to discover the beauty of purple succulents.

15 purple succulents

Echeveria ‘Perle von Nurnberg’:

This stunning succulent has rosettes of dusty lavender leaves with pink highlights on the edges. It is popular among succulent enthusiasts due to its striking color and unique texture.

Grafted Moon Cactus

While not technically a succulent, this plant is often grouped with them. It has a bright purple top that contrasts beautifully with its green base. It is a fun and unique addition to any collection.

Echeveria ‘Afterglow’

This succulent has large, round leaves in shades of lavender and pink. The leaves have a powdery coating that adds to their unique appearance.

Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’

This low-growing succulent has deep purple leaves that turn a reddish color in full sun. It is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and looks great in rock gardens.

Graptopetalum paraguayense

This succulent has rosettes of flat, fleshy leaves ranging from light lavender to blue-gray. It is a versatile plant that can be grown in various conditions.

Kalanchoe ‘Fantastic’ 

This succulent has round, fleshy leaves that are purple on the edges and green in the center. It produces bright pink flowers that contrast beautifully with its foliage.

Echeveria ‘Black Prince’

This succulent has dark, almost black leaves that have a purple tint in bright light. It is popular among succulent enthusiasts due to its unique color and easy care requirements.

Sedeveria ‘Blue Elf’

This hybrid succulent has rosettes of blue-purple leaves that form a tight cluster. It is a hardy plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors.

Graptoveria ‘Debbie’

This succulent has rosettes of lavender and pink leaves that form a beautiful rosette. It is a low-maintenance plant that looks great in succulent arrangements.

Echeveria ‘Lola’

This succulent has rosettes of lavender-gray leaves that are tinged with pink on the edges. It is a beautiful plant that looks great both independently and in arrangements.

Pachyphytum oviferum ‘Moonstones’

This succulent has round powdery leaves in shades of purple-gray and blue-green. It is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and looks great in rock gardens.

Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’

This succulent has rosettes of deep purple leaves that are almost black. It is a striking plant that looks great in containers or as a focal point in a garden bed.

Sedum ‘Purpureum’

This low-growing succulent has deep purple leaves that form a dense mat. It is an excellent choice for ground cover or planting between stepping stones.

Graptoveria ‘Fred Ives’

This succulent has rosettes of purple and pink leaves that form a beautiful cluster. It is a low-maintenance plant that looks great in arrangements or a rock garden.

Crassula ‘Tom Thumb’

This low-growing succulent has small, round leaves that are purple in bright light. It is a hardy plant that is great for beginners or planting in small containers.

How to grow purple succulents?

Purple succulents are a great addition to any plant collection, but like any plant, they require proper care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips for growing and caring for your purple succulents.

Light

Purple succulents typically prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Some varieties, like the Graptopetalum paraguayense and the Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’, can tolerate some direct sunlight. However, be careful not to expose your succulents to too much direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to burn.

Soil

Succulents require well-draining soil to thrive, and purple succulents are no exception. You can use pre-mixed succulent soil or make your own by mixing potting soil, sand, and perlite. Avoid using regular garden soil, as it is too dense and will not provide proper drainage.

Water

Purple succulents are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Overwatering is one of the most common causes of succulent death. Water your plants only when the soil has completely dried out. When you do water, be sure to give the soil a thorough soak, allowing the water to drain out the bottom of the pot.

Temperature

Most purple succulents prefer warm temperatures, between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some varieties, like the Pachyphytum oviferum ‘Moonstones’, can tolerate cooler temperatures. Avoid exposing your succulents to extreme temperature fluctuations, as this can stress the plants and cause them to drop their leaves.

Fertilizer

Purple succulents do not require frequent fertilizing, but a light application of succulent fertilizer once or twice a year can help promote healthy growth. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer according to the package instructions, as too much can burn the roots of your plants.

Repotting

As your purple succulents grow, you may need to repot them into larger containers. This is best done in the spring when the plants start growing again after winter. When repotting, be sure to use a well-draining soil mix and a pot that is only slightly larger than the plant’s current container.

Pruning

Purple succulents generally do not require much pruning, but you may need to occasionally remove dead or damaged leaves. Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts, and be sure to disinfect your tools between plants to prevent the spread of disease.

Propagation

Propagating your purple succulents is a great way to grow your collection and share your plants with others. Most succulents can be propagated by taking stem or leaf cuttings and allowing them to root in a well-draining soil mix. Be sure to let the cuttings callus over for a day or two before planting them, as this helps prevent rot.

By following these tips, you can confidently grow and care for your purple succulents. These plants are an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners, and their unique color and texture will surely add interest to any collection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, purple succulents are a beautiful addition to any plant collection, with their unique colors and textures adding interest and depth to indoor and outdoor spaces. 

Remember to provide the right growing conditions, such as well-draining soil and appropriate lighting, and to water sparingly to prevent root rot. 

With a little care, your purple succulents will thrive and continue to bring joy and beauty for years to come.