There can be several reasons why your loropetalum is not purple and instead appears green. Let’s explore these possibilities in detail.
1. Excess water: Loropetalum plants prefer well-drained soil and can suffer if they are overwatered. Too much water can lead to root rot, which can affect the plant’s overall health and leaf color. If the soil is constantly soggy, it may be a good idea to adjust your watering practices and ensure that the soil has proper drainage.
2. Dry conditions: On the other hand, if the loropetalum is not receiving enough water, it may become stressed and exhibit green leaves instead of its characteristic purple color. Make sure you are providing adequate moisture to the plant, especially during dry spells or hot weather.
3. Too much fertilizer: Excessive fertilization can also impact the leaf color of loropetalum. When plants receive an excess of nitrogen, they tend to produce more chlorophyll, resulting in greener leaves. It is important to follow the recommended fertilization guidelines for loropetalum and avoid overfeeding the plant.
4. Rootstock reversion: Sometimes, loropetalum plants are grafted onto a different rootstock for various reasons. In such cases, there is a possibility of the plant reverting back to the characteristics of the rootstock, which may cause it to lose its purple color. If this is the case, there is not much that can be done to restore the original color, as it is a genetic change.
5. Lighting levels: The color intensity of loropetalum leaves can be influenced by the level of sunlight they receive. Higher light levels, particularly exposure to UV rays, can enhance the development of pigments responsible for the deep purple color. Insufficient sunlight or shade can result in less vibrant foliage, causing the leaves to appear greener.
It is important to note that different loropetalum varieties may have varying degrees of purple coloration, and some may naturally exhibit more green tones than others. Additionally, the leaf color can also change with the seasons, with some varieties displaying more purple hues during cooler months.
The green coloration of your loropetalum could be due to excess water, dry conditions, overfertilization, rootstock reversion, or insufficient sunlight. Assessing and adjusting these factors can help encourage the plant to regain its natural purple color.