This summer, the vibrant hue of purple has emerged as the reigning favourite among British gardeners, signalling a significant shift in horticultural trends. According to research conducted by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), over 11,000 visitors to RHS Garden Wisley’s Hilltop have highlighted their preference for purple plants, illustrating a broader movement away from the more muted palettes of recent years.
The Rise of Purple in Horticulture
Plants such as lavender, salvias, and catmint are experiencing a surge in popularity, as more gardeners opt for these lively colours to enliven their outdoor spaces. The RHS’s findings revealed that purple shades accounted for 26.67% of the choices made by visitors, closely followed by red at 25.24%. This strong preference for purple is not only surprising but also indicative of a larger trend where colour is increasingly embraced in garden designs.
Tom Massey, a notable garden designer from London, remarks on this shift, noting that clients are now seeking out brighter, more vibrant colours, particularly purples. “We’ve moved away from the era of large expanses of decking, paving, and lawn towards richer, more naturalistic planting inspired by meadows and natural plant communities,” he explains.
A Departure from Grey
The trend towards colour marks a clear departure from the grey tones that have dominated home and garden aesthetics in recent years. Garden designer Laura Carey, co-owner of Carey Garden Designs, echoes this sentiment, stating that purple is consistently a preferred choice among her clients. “There are numerous purple flowering plants to select from, including beloved varieties like lavender, alliums, and geraniums,” she adds.
The appeal of purple lies not only in its aesthetic qualities but also in its ability to harmonise with other colours and its ecological benefits. Massey points out that purple plants complement greens, silvers, and the earthy tones of ornamental grasses, while also attracting vital pollinators. Furthermore, the calming effect of purple has been well-documented; studies show that shades of purple and blue can foster feelings of tranquillity, while warmer hues like yellow and orange evoke joy.
Embracing Confidence in Colour
Massey believes that there is a growing confidence among gardeners regarding colour choices, as evidenced by successful public landscapes such as Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London and the High Line in New York. These spaces showcase bold colour combinations that not only captivate the eye but also promote ecological diversity. “At RHS gardens like Wisley, we see planting schemes that are both beautiful and ecologically rich,” he notes.
The findings on colour preferences were published in the study “Flower Power: How Favourite Flower Colours Shape How We Feel” in the journal Acta Psychologica. Dr. Ashby Sachs, a wellbeing fellow at the RHS, emphasises the significant role that colour plays in garden design. “Understanding how different colours interact with our sense of wellbeing can be incredibly beneficial in creating spaces that cater to specific needs, such as in schools or hospitals,” he explains.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of purple in British gardens reflects a deeper societal shift towards embracing colour and nature in our daily lives. This trend not only enhances the visual appeal of gardens but also contributes positively to mental wellbeing, creating environments that are both aesthetically pleasing and emotionally nurturing. As more individuals turn to their gardens for solace and joy, the choice of vibrant colours like purple becomes a powerful tool for fostering happiness and tranquility in our increasingly urbanised world.
