Loropetalums – Not Purple Any More

Q: My Plum Delight loropetalums have gone from the gorgeous deep purple color to a dull green. I choose this variety for the year round color. The plants are healthy and increasing in size, but I am puzzled by the color change.

A: Loropetalums vary in their ability to stay purple over the summer. ‘Blush’ and ‘Burgundy’ are often olive-green by September. ‘Purple Diamond’ and ‘Ever Red’ are reputed to stay purple year-round. ‘Plum Delight’ is supposed to remain burgundy too, so I wonder if that’s the variety you have. It is possible that it was mis-labeled at the nursery. Good nurseries offer a warranty if you are not satisfied with their plants.