Purple Heart plants (Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’) are distinctive for their vibrant purple foliage and trailing growth habit. Gardeners often inquire about their susceptibility to deer browsing, a common concern given the widespread presence of deer.
Are Purple Heart Plants Deer Resistant
Purple Heart plants are generally considered deer resistant. Their foliage possesses a bitter taste and a somewhat fibrous texture, which are not preferred by deer.
Beyond taste and texture, Purple Heart plants contain calcium oxalate crystals. When chewed, these crystals cause irritation and a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, making the plant unpalatable. While largely avoided, no plant is entirely deer-proof; a hungry deer, especially during periods of food scarcity, might still sample or browse plants typically considered resistant.
Understanding Deer Foraging Habits
Deer are opportunistic herbivores, and their diet can vary significantly based on regional food availability, population density, and the time of year. They consume a wide variety of vegetation, including forbs, woody browse, grasses, and mast. In spring and summer, deer often seek tender, high-protein new growth.
During fall and winter, when preferred food sources become scarce, deer may broaden their diet to include plants they would otherwise ignore. This can lead to browsing on plants typically considered deer-resistant. High deer populations can also increase browsing pressure on a wider range of plants.
Protecting Your Purple Heart Plants
Despite Purple Heart plants being largely deer resistant, gardeners may still wish to implement additional protection measures, especially in areas with high deer activity or during periods of food scarcity. Physical barriers are highly effective at preventing deer from reaching plants. Fencing, at least 8 feet tall, is the most reliable method, though even lower fences with a psychological deterrent can be effective if deer cannot see a clear landing zone. Netting can also be draped over individual plants or small beds to create a protective cover.
Deer repellents offer another layer of protection, working through taste or odor to deter browsing. Many commercial repellents contain ingredients like putrescent egg solids, garlic, or predator urine, which create unpleasant scents or tastes for deer. Repellents require regular reapplication, particularly after rain, to maintain their effectiveness, and alternating between different types can prevent deer from becoming accustomed to a single deterrent.
Strategic planting can also help; while not a primary defense, surrounding Purple Heart plants with other highly unpalatable plants, such as those with strong aromas or prickly textures, may further discourage deer.