Purple Flowering Trees & Shrubs Australia

Sortable, filterable reference for 22 purple/violet-flowering trees and shrubs grown in Australia. Filter by native status, size class, or bloom season.

Quick Reference

Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) is the most recognised purple flowering tree in Australia but is not native — it originates from Argentina/Bolivia.
True Australian natives with purple/violet blooms include Hovea, Hardenbergia violacea, Prostanthera, Lechenaultia biloba, and purple-flowering Melaleuca.
Tibouchina is a common introduced species often mistaken for native (it's Brazilian).
Native species generally bloom earlier (winter–spring) and provide higher wildlife/pollinator value than introduced ornamentals.
Use the filters below to shortlist species by height, native status, or flowering month for your garden plan.

FAQ / Troubleshooting

Why is my jacaranda not flowering?

Common causes: the tree is still too young, excess nitrogen fertiliser, insufficient sunlight, or frost damage to flower buds. Reduce fertiliser and ensure full sun exposure.

Why are the leaves turning yellow on a purple flowering tree?

Usually overwatering, poor drainage, iron or magnesium deficiency, or normal seasonal leaf drop — jacarandas often shed leaves just before flowering.

Which purple flowering species are best for pollinators?

Native species — Hovea, Hardenbergia, Prostanthera, Lechenaultia — generally offer the highest wildlife and pollinator value compared to introduced ornamentals like jacaranda or Tibouchina.

Are any of these species invasive?

Jacaranda has low invasive risk in most states. Duranta erecta may be considered invasive in some regions — check local council regulations before planting.

What's a good small purple tree alternative to jacaranda?

Tibouchina urvilleana, Hovea elliptica, compact Prostanthera varieties, or purple-flowering Crepe Myrtle cultivars all stay under 4–5 metres.

Purple Flowering Trees & Shrubs — Australia Species Lookup Table

Quick Reference

FAQ / Troubleshooting