Dodonaea viscosa Purpurea

Dodonaea viscosa Purpurea, commonly known as purple hop bush, is a variant of Dodonaea viscosa, distinguished by its striking purple-red foliage which is most vibrant during winter. This evergreen shrub or small tree is robust and adaptable, with a dense, bushy growth habit, and papery, winged seed capsules that add further interest to its appearance.

In the garden, Dodonaea viscosa Purpurea is excellent for creating vibrant hedges, screens, or as a specimen plant. Its richly coloured foliage makes it a popular choice for adding contrast and visual interest in mixed borders, contemporary landscapes, or native plantings. It is also suitable for coastal gardens, where it can tolerate salt spray and strong winds.

Purple hop bush thrives in full sun, which enhances the purple coloring of its leaves, and prefers well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and can handle a range of soil types, making it a versatile plant for different garden settings. For planting as a hedge or to create a dense screen, spacing of about 1-2m apart is ideal to allow for growth and spread.

The mature size of Dodonaea viscosa Purpurea can grow up to 6m high and 2.5m wide.