Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’ – Purple Hop Bush
The ultimate native screen with standout foliage
Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’, commonly known as Purple Hop Bush, is a striking Australian native shrub valued for its rich burgundy-purple foliage and exceptional toughness. Growing to around 3–5 metres tall and 2–3 metres wide, it provides outstanding colour contrast, privacy screening and year-round structure in the landscape. Its drought tolerance, fast growth and adaptability make it a favourite choice for Melbourne gardens, contemporary landscapes and native planting schemes where low maintenance and visual impact are equally important.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’ |
| Common Name | Purple Hop Bush |
| Mature Height | 3–5m |
| Mature Width | 2–3m |
| Position | Full Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained soils |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Foliage Colour | Deep Purple to Burgundy |
| Evergreen | Yes |
| Drought Tolerance | High Once Established |
Why Melbourne Gardeners Love Dodonaea Purpurea
Fast-growing privacy and year-round colour in one plant
Purple Hop Bush delivers one of the best foliage displays available from an Australian native plant. Its vibrant purple leaves create stunning contrast against green hedges, ornamental grasses and flowering shrubs, while its upright growth habit makes it ideal for privacy screens and boundary planting. Highly tolerant of Melbourne’s dry summers, wind and coastal conditions, it offers year-round colour without demanding ongoing maintenance.
Why You’ll Love It
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Rich Purple Foliage | Creates year-round colour and contrast |
| Excellent Screening Plant | Fast-growing and naturally dense |
| Drought Tolerant | Perfect for low-maintenance gardens |
| Australian Native | Tough, adaptable and wildlife friendly |
