Growing a purple flower succulent plant is easier than you think—with the right care, these vibrant, drought-tolerant gems can thrive indoors or outdoors. From proper watering to ideal lighting, this guide covers everything you need to keep your succulent healthy and blooming with gorgeous purple flowers.
If you’re looking for a plant that’s both stunning and surprisingly easy to care for, the purple flower succulent plant might just be your perfect match. These charming, low-maintenance beauties combine the resilience of succulents with the delicate charm of blooming flowers—specifically in shades of lavender, violet, and deep purple. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a seasoned plant lover, adding a purple-flowering succulent to your collection brings a pop of color and a sense of calm to any space.
What makes these plants so special isn’t just their eye-catching blooms. It’s their ability to thrive with minimal attention. Unlike high-maintenance flowering plants that demand constant care, purple flower succulents are built for survival. They store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, allowing them to endure dry spells and neglectful owners alike. And when they do bloom, the reward is worth the wait—clusters of star-shaped or bell-like purple flowers that seem almost too pretty to be real.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the right species: Not all succulents produce purple flowers—popular options include Echeveria, Graptopetalum, and Kalanchoe.
- Provide bright, indirect light: Most purple-flowering succulents need 4–6 hours of sunlight daily to bloom.
- Water sparingly: Overwatering is the #1 cause of succulent death—let soil dry completely between waterings.
- Use well-draining soil: A cactus or succulent mix prevents root rot and supports healthy growth.
- Fertilize during growing season: A diluted, balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer encourages flowering.
- Watch for pests and signs of stress: Mealybugs and aphids can appear—treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Encourage blooms with seasonal cues: Some succulents need cooler winter temps or shorter days to trigger flowering.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Can purple flower succulents grow indoors?
Yes! Most purple flower succulents thrive indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect light—like near a south- or west-facing window.
How often should I water my purple succulent?
Water only when the soil is completely dry—usually every 1–2 weeks in summer and once a month in winter.
Why isn’t my succulent blooming?
It may need more light, a cooler winter period, or time to mature. Some succulents take 2–3 years to flower.
Can I propagate my purple flower succulent?
Absolutely! Many succulents can be propagated from leaf or stem cuttings. Let the cut end callus for a day, then place in well-draining soil.
Are purple flower succulents toxic to pets?
Some, like Kalanchoe, are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep them out of reach or choose pet-safe varieties like Echeveria.
📑 Table of Contents
What Is a Purple Flower Succulent Plant?
A purple flower succulent plant is any succulent species that produces flowers in shades of purple. While the foliage of many succulents can also be purple—thanks to pigments like anthocyanins that protect against sun damage—the real magic happens when they bloom. These flowers often appear in spring or summer and can last for several weeks, adding a splash of color to your windowsill, balcony, or garden.
Some of the most popular purple-flowering succulents include Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg’, which produces pinkish-purple blooms on tall stalks, and Graptopetalum paraguayense (also known as Ghost Plant), which sends up clusters of small, star-shaped lavender flowers. Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is another favorite, known for its long-lasting, vibrant purple blooms and thick, glossy leaves. Each of these plants has slightly different care needs, but they all share the same core succulent traits: drought tolerance, slow growth, and a love for bright light.
Choosing the Right Purple Flower Succulent
Not every succulent will reward you with purple flowers, so it’s important to pick the right variety from the start. Here are a few top picks that are known for their reliable purple blooms and beginner-friendly care:
Echeveria ‘Perle von Nürnberg’
This rosette-forming succulent has silvery-purple leaves that deepen in color with sun exposure. In spring, it produces tall flower stalks with bell-shaped pink-purple blooms. It’s perfect for containers and thrives in bright, indirect light.
Graptopetalum paraguayense (Ghost Plant)
With its pale gray-purple foliage, this succulent looks almost otherworldly. In late spring, it sends up delicate stems topped with clusters of five-petaled lavender flowers. It’s extremely hardy and great for rock gardens or hanging baskets.
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana
Unlike many succulents, Kalanchoe is often sold already in bloom, making it a great choice if you want instant color. Its flowers come in deep purple, magenta, and violet, and with proper care, it can rebloom multiple times a year.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)
While its leaves turn red in strong light, this succulent produces small yellow flowers—but some hybrid varieties have been bred to bloom in soft purple. Look for ‘Purple Dragon’ or similar cultivars if you want purple flowers on a jelly bean-style plant.
When shopping, check the plant tag or ask the seller about flowering habits. Some succulents only bloom after several years or under specific conditions, so patience is key.
Ideal Growing Conditions
To help your purple flower succulent plant thrive—and eventually bloom—you’ll need to mimic its natural habitat. Most of these plants originate from arid or semi-arid regions like Mexico, South Africa, or the Mediterranean, where sunlight is abundant and rainfall is infrequent.
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light is essential. Aim for 4–6 hours of sunlight per day. A south- or west-facing window is ideal for indoor plants. If you notice your succulent stretching or becoming pale, it’s likely not getting enough light. On the flip side, too much direct midday sun can scorch the leaves—especially in summer. If growing outdoors, consider morning sun with afternoon shade.
Temperature and Humidity
Purple flower succulents prefer warm days (70–80°F / 21–27°C) and cooler nights (50–60°F / 10–15°C). They can tolerate brief dips below 40°F (4°C), but prolonged cold can damage or kill them. Most do well in average household humidity, but avoid placing them in overly damp areas like bathrooms unless well-ventilated.
Soil and Potting
Drainage is critical. Use a commercial cactus or succulent potting mix, or make your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand (aim for a 1:1 ratio). Avoid garden soil—it holds too much moisture and can lead to root rot. Choose pots with drainage holes to let excess water escape.
Watering and Fertilizing Tips
One of the biggest mistakes new succulent owners make is overwatering. These plants are built to survive drought, so they don’t need frequent drinks.
How to Water Properly
Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom, then wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. In summer, this might mean watering every 1–2 weeks. In winter, when growth slows, you may only need to water once a month. Always check the soil first—stick your finger in up to the first knuckle. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering
Overwatered succulents often have soft, mushy, translucent leaves that may fall off easily. The base may turn black or brown—this is root rot. Underwatered plants will have wrinkled, shriveled leaves that feel dry and papery. Adjust your watering schedule based on these cues.
Fertilizing for Better Blooms
Feed your purple flower succulent plant during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Some gardeners also use a bloom booster (higher in phosphorus) to encourage more flowers.
Encouraging Your Succulent to Bloom
Getting your succulent to produce those gorgeous purple flowers takes a little extra effort—but it’s totally worth it.
Provide Seasonal Cues
Many succulents need a period of cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours in winter to trigger blooming. For example, Kalanchoe often requires 14 hours of darkness per day for 6–8 weeks in fall to set buds. You can simulate this by moving the plant to a cool, dark room at night.
Prune and Deadhead
Remove spent flowers and leggy growth to redirect energy toward new blooms. Use clean scissors or pruning shears to snip off old flower stalks at the base. This also helps maintain a compact, attractive shape.
Be Patient
Some succulents take 2–3 years to mature enough to flower. Younger plants focus their energy on growing strong roots and leaves. Don’t be discouraged if your plant doesn’t bloom right away—consistent care will pay off.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with the best care, issues can arise. Here’s how to handle the most common ones:
Pests
Mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can infest succulents. Look for white cottony spots, sticky residue, or tiny webs. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, applied every 5–7 days until the pests are gone. Isolate affected plants to prevent spreading.
Root Rot
Caused by overwatering and poor drainage. If caught early, you can save the plant by removing it from the soil, cutting away black or mushy roots, and repotting in fresh, dry mix. Let the plant callus for a day before watering.
Sunburn
Brown or white patches on leaves indicate too much direct sun. Move the plant to a spot with filtered light and gradually acclimate it to brighter conditions over a week or two.
Conclusion
Growing a purple flower succulent plant is a rewarding experience that combines beauty, resilience, and simplicity. With the right balance of light, water, and care, these plants can flourish for years—and reward you with stunning purple blooms season after season. Whether you’re growing them on a sunny windowsill, in a decorative pot, or as part of a drought-tolerant garden, purple-flowering succulents bring a touch of elegance and calm to any environment.
Remember, the key to success is consistency and observation. Watch your plant, learn its signals, and adjust your care as needed. Before you know it, you’ll be the proud owner of a thriving, blooming succulent that turns heads and lifts spirits. So go ahead—bring home a purple flower succulent plant today and enjoy the quiet joy of nurturing something truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes purple flowers on succulents?
Purple flowers are a natural trait of certain succulent species. The color comes from pigments like anthocyanins, which also protect the plant from sun damage. Blooming is triggered by light, temperature, and maturity.
Can I grow a purple flower succulent from a leaf?
Yes, many succulents can be propagated from leaves. Gently twist a healthy leaf from the stem, let it dry for 1–2 days, then place it on soil. Roots and a new plant will form in a few weeks.
Do purple flower succulents need direct sunlight?
They need bright light, but not necessarily direct sun all day. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Too much direct midday sun can scorch the leaves.
How long do the purple flowers last?
Depending on the species, purple flowers can last from a few weeks to over a month. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage a second flush.
Can I keep my succulent outside year-round?
Only if you live in a warm climate (USDA zones 9–11). In colder areas, bring them indoors before the first frost to protect them from freezing temperatures.
Why are my succulent’s leaves turning purple?
Purple or red leaves are often a sign of sun stress or cooler temperatures—this is normal and actually helps the plant protect itself. It’s not usually a cause for concern unless the plant looks unhealthy.