purple leaf climbing plant

Top Choices for Purple Leaf Climbing Plants

When choosing a purple leaf climbing plant, there are a few outstanding options to consider, each with their own charm and growing requirements.

Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch'

For those who want vibrant purple tones and lush climbing growth, Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch' is a standout favourite. Though prized for its profuse purple bracts, this variety also features deep green foliage with a hint of purple shading during active growth phases. Its vigorous climbing habit makes it ideal for covering sunny walls, fences, or a sturdy arbor, transforming a plain space into a breathtaking feature. Bougainvilleas thrive in warmer parts of the country and are relatively drought tolerant once established.

Hoya pubicalyx 'Royal Hawaiian Purple'

Looking for a climbing plant that does well indoors or in sheltered outdoor spots? Hoya pubicalyx 'Royal Hawaiian Purple' is an excellent choice. While best known for its waxy, dark-green leaves flecked with silver and purple tones, it develops striking cascades of purple-marbled foliage over time. This climbing plant is loved for its trailing habit and scented flowers, making it an elegant option for hanging baskets, trellises, or trailing from a shelf inside your home.

Other Purple-Tinted Plants for NZ Gardens

Though true purple leaf climbing plants are rare, there are other purple-foliaged species that complement climbers beautifully or can cascade as ground covers:

• Acaena purpurea (Piripiri): A low-growing, spreading groundcover with deeply coloured purple foliage, perfect for tying together garden beds and climbing plants.
• Dodonaea viscosa purpurea (Purple Hop Bush): While not a climber, it boasts dramatic purple-bronze foliage and provides bold structure in mixed plantings alongside climbers.
• Anthurium Zizou Purple': For indoor colour, this lush, upright plant displays beautiful purple-toned leaves, pairing well with climbing Hoyas for texture and depth.

Design Tips for Growing Purple Leaf Climbing Plants

Purple leaf climbing plants shine when paired with contrasting green, gold, or silvery-foliaged companions. Train your chosen climber up an archway, trellis, or pergola to showcase its colour at eye level. For a bolder effect, use dark climbers against light-coloured walls or fence panels. Most climbers prefer a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Feed in spring and summer for the healthiest growth and most vivid foliage.

Experiment by combining a beautiful climber like Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch' with low-growing mat plants such as Acaena purpurea (Piripiri) and architectural feature shrubs like Dodonaea viscosa purpurea (Purple Hop Bush) for eye-catching, layered plantings.

Find Your Perfect Purple Plant

Whether you’re planning a striking garden entrance, a vibrant indoor display, or a whimsical fence covering, a purple leaf climbing plant adds instant charm and year-round drama to your space. Explore our range, from hardy outdoor climbers like Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch' to collector favourites such as Hoya pubicalyx 'Royal Hawaiian Purple' and ground-hugging gems like Acaena purpurea (Piripiri). With the right plant, you’ll create a garden full of colour, texture, and delight for years to come.