Peach-leaf and clustered
bellflowers and yarrow are a
perfect blend of blue-purple
and golden yellow.

Playing with Purple

• Purple foliage adds a compelling dimension to the garden. Consider purple varieties of ajuga, bergenia, smokebush, barberry, coral bells, snakeroot, geranium, and New Zealand flax.
• Because purple tends to get lost in the shade, pair it with a light-color companion, such as one with chartreuse or golden foliage.
• Smoky purples look their most regal in the fall, especially underplanting Japanese maples and other trees with brilliant red or gold leaves.
• Seek higher-power purples in vines: wisteria, clematis, sweet potato vine, and the dark-leaf grapes (Vitis vinifera 'Purpurea').

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