In this post we will discuss a very colourful shrub from the Dodonaea genus, Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea'. It is an evergreen shrub from the Sapindaceae family, native to Australia and Arizona.
It can reach 125/150 centimetres in width and 150/300 centimetres in height; as we can see, it is a plant that over time can grow to large dimensions, but can be easily controlled with pruning.
This shrub has evergreen, simple and elliptical leaves, with an intense and striking purple colour that will contrast beautifully in the garden with other species of greener or whitish tones. The leaves are arranged alternately along the branch, which is also dark brown in colour.
Flowering, in the same colour as the leaves, occurs from May to June. The flowers are grouped in short clusters, and the capsule-like fruit has two or three wings of the same colour as the leaves.
- Image of Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea'. Source: onlineplants.com
It is a species belonging to hardiness zone 8, with an average minimum annual temperature range of -12.2 / -6.7°C, showing resistance to frost.
Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea' has proven to be a drought-tolerant species. It only requires supplemental watering during the 12-14 weeks following planting. Once well-rooted, it requires occasional watering, especially during the driest summer months. It is advisable to cover the soil with some type of mulch to retain soil moisture and prevent unwanted weeds. At Sala Graupera, we recommend planting in autumn, so the plant has all winter and spring to develop a root system deep enough to successfully survive its first summer.
Its preferred location is in full sun. If this is not possible, it can tolerate light shade, but this will affect the leaf colour, which will become somewhat greener. It is suitable for monotonous sustainable gardens when you want to break up the green with a touch of colour.
- Image of Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea'. Source: budgetplants.com
It thrives in both sandy and heavy clay soils, as long as they have good drainage. No fertiliser is necessary unless grown in a container.
We can consider it a very functional plant as it adapts to all types of gardens. It can be used to create dense masses with tall growth; or displayed in all its splendour as an isolated element within a mass of shrubs. It is also suitable for planting in containers or planters on terraces and balconies.
The recommended planting density is 1 plant per m2, or 2 per linear metre if seeking to create a border.
This is a highly recommended and versatile plant that we encourage you to try.