Dodonaea is a tough, sun-loving genus of shrubs and small trees best known for thriving where many other plants struggle – on windswept coasts, rocky hillsides, dry scrub, and disturbed ground. Many species have slim, often sticky or resinous leaves that help reduce water loss, and the plants are frequently either male or female (with flowers on separate individuals), followed by distinctive papery, winged seed capsules that can look almost lantern-like when they mature. Belonging to the soapberry family, Sapindaceae, Dodonaea is a genuinely wide-ranging group with a strong foothold in the Southern Hemisphere. It is especially diverse in Australia, but the genus also occurs across Africa (including parts of southern and eastern Africa), Madagascar, the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, South and Southeast Asia, and many Pacific islands, with some species extending into the Americas. This broad distribution reflects its adaptability – Dodonaea often slots neatly into fire-prone, drought-stressed, or coastal ecosystems, making it an ecological “survivor” genus with plenty of horticultural appeal.

Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’

Known for its dramatic foliage, Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’ (often sold as Purple Hopbush or Purple Leaf Hop Bush) brings rich, contemporary colour to tough landscapes. It’s a striking choice for South African gardens where year-round structure matters, and for international growers wanting a drought-tolerant shrub that reads as “designer” without being delicate.

This form belongs to the widespread Dodonaea viscosa complex and is grown primarily for its purple to burgundy foliage, which can deepen in full sun and cooler conditions. Plants are evergreen, upright to rounded, and naturally lend themselves to hedging, windbreaks, feature plantings, and contrast planting alongside silvers, greys and bright greens. As with the species, flowers are small and understated, generally greenish to yellow-green, but the plant’s overall colour and texture do the heavy lifting.

Important note for seed buyers: ‘Purpurea’ is a cultivated selection, and seed-grown plants may vary. From seed, you can expect a range from green through bronzy tones to purple-flushed individuals, especially influenced by sun intensity and temperature. Flowering typically peaks spring to summer (timing varies by climate), followed by the characteristic winged capsules, which can also show attractive warm tones as they mature.