As summer blooms across the United Kingdom, a striking trend is emerging in gardens nationwide: the widespread preference for purple hues among British gardeners. Recent research conducted by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) reveals that over 11,000 visitors at RHS Garden Wisley’s Hilltop have expressed their fondness for this vibrant shade, with purple flowers taking the lead in popularity.
A Shift in Gardening Trends
The RHS’s comprehensive study indicates that purple flowers now dominate the horticultural landscape, accounting for 26.67% of preferences, closely followed by red at 25.24%. This shift marks a notable deviation from previous trends that favoured muted greys and pristine lawns, suggesting a renewed enthusiasm for colour in garden design.
Tom Massey, a distinguished garden designer based in London, observes this transformation firsthand. He notes a growing demand for bright colours, particularly purples, as clients move away from expansive decking and uniform lawns towards more naturalistic designs inspired by wildflower meadows. “We’ve moved away from the era of large expanses of decking, paving and lawn towards richer, more naturalistic planting,” he explains.
The Allure of Purple
The resurgence of purple in gardening can be attributed to its aesthetic appeal and its beneficial effects on the environment. Laura Carey, co-owner of Carey Garden Designs, confirms that purple has become her clients’ favourite shade. “There are so many purple flowering plants to choose from, including national favourites like lavender, alliums and geraniums,” she states.
Massey elaborates on the versatility of purple, noting its ability to harmonise beautifully with greens, silvers, and the warm tones of ornamental grasses. Additionally, purple flowers are known to attract pollinators, enhancing biodiversity. The calming quality associated with purple also plays a significant role in its popularity, as recent studies indicate that this hue can evoke feelings of tranquility and relaxation.
The Emotional Connection to Colour
The emotional resonance of colours, particularly purples and blues, is a topic of increasing interest in horticultural research. According to Dr Ashby Sachs, a wellbeing fellow at the RHS, understanding how colour influences our emotions can shape the design of outdoor spaces. “That different shades of colour can elicit an anticipated emotional response in people is incredibly useful when it comes to designing spaces for specific purposes,” he notes. This insight is particularly relevant in creating environments in schools, hospitals, and community gardens that promote wellbeing.
Massey also highlights the confidence with which gardeners are now embracing colour, citing successful public landscapes such as Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London and the High Line in New York as examples of bold colour usage. “You can see this in high-profile public landscapes that have proved hugely popular, where bold combinations of colour are used to create planting schemes that are both beautiful and ecologically rich,” he explains.
Why it Matters
The trend towards vibrant purple hues in British gardens signifies a broader cultural movement towards embracing nature and individuality in outdoor spaces. As gardeners increasingly prioritise emotional wellbeing alongside ecological considerations, the popularity of purple plants not only reflects aesthetic preferences but also underscores the importance of creating nurturing environments. This shift in gardening philosophy could lead to more vibrant, diverse, and emotionally supportive landscapes, fostering a deeper connection between people and nature.