Eupatorium sordidum
(formerly Ageratum corymbosa)

EXCLUSIVE! I must say this is truly one of the most extraordinary shade plants we have come across in many a year (Thank you David Feix!). It blooms generously all year around here in zone 10, presenting large and glorious fluffy violet-blue flower heads to 6" across (like a giant Ageratum) and the flowers open from velvety violet bud clusters that are so pretty! Most excellent are its exotic velvety leaves which start out greenish but quickly turn a lush and sexy dark purple. Evergreen - or "everpurple" - the foliage is held on branching stems creating a well-mannered form I've never had to pinch back! I'm so happy to say it is EXTREMELY EASY to grow, reaching full size (3' x 3') in about 3-4 months in rich soil. I grow mine with morning sun and afternoon shade, although it loves all day medium shade here at the nursery. Attracts butterflies, too! Roots are hardy to 15°F.