Northwest Blooms · Vines
Vitis vinifera 'Purpurea'
Purple-leaved Grapevine
- Family
- Vitaceae
- Height
- Up to 20 feet
- Width
- 6 to 10 feet
- Flower color
- Insignificant greenish-white flowers
- Foliage color
- Emerges green with a flush of burgundy in spring; deepens to purple in summer
- Bloom time
- Early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Average
- Maintenance
- Prune annually during dormancy to maintain shape; can be trained on trellises or arbors
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts birds; provides habitat and food
About this plant
Vitis vinifera 'Purpurea', also known as the purple-leaved grapevine, is a deciduous climber celebrated for its ornamental foliage and seasonal interest. The leaves emerge green but quickly mature to deep reddish-purple, creating a rich, dramatic effect throughout the growing season. Small, greenish flowers appear in early summer, followed by clusters of tiny, dark purple, inedible grapes in late summer to early autumn.
Originating as a cultivated variety of the common grapevine, 'Purpurea' is primarily grown for its decorative value rather than fruit production. Its vigorous climbing habit makes it an excellent choice for covering pergolas, trellises, or walls, offering both vibrant color and texture to garden designs.
Works well in
Arbors & Trellises · Fences & Walls · Vertical Screening · Cottage Gardens · Bird Gardens
Companion plants
Boxwood · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Climbing roses · Columbines
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Give it something sturdy to climb and keep the base planted with lower perennials, which shades the roots and hides bare stems.
