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Poisonberry

Behr · BXC-18

The Analysis

Poisonberry is a deep, saturated plum that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 7.66. It will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, effectively pulling the walls inward to create a cozy, enclosed atmosphere.

This is a high-drama choice best suited for accent walls, powder rooms, or libraries. Avoid using it as a main wall color in tiny or windowless spaces, as it will likely make the room feel like a cave.

LRV 8

History & Origin

This color channels the moody, saturated palettes common in Victorian-era interiors and dark academic studies. It avoids the 'fresh' look of modern minimalism in favor of a heavy, established aesthetic.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to balance the purple undertones, and use unlacquered brass hardware for a classic contrast. It also works well with matte black fixtures if you want to lean into a modern, sophisticated edge.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels grounded and restful rather than energizing. Because of its dark, moody profile, it creates a retreat-like environment that feels substantial and calm rather than clinical or clean.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Chestnut

    Benjamin Moore · 2082-10

  • Barn Red

    Benjamin Moore · ES-22

  • Tuscan Russet

    Behr · UL110-1

  • Molten Sulphur

    Valspar · V080-6

  • Chianti

    Behr · S-H-150

  • Arras

    Little Greene · 6154

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
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  • 5500K