Ruella simplex (Mexican Petunia)
Botanical Information
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Ruella |
| Species | simplex |
| Category | Perennials, Tropicals, Wildflowers & Weeds |
| Origin | Native to Mexico. |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8 |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | 7b |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H5 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Temperature (°C) | - 15 to - 10 |
| Temperature (°F) | 5 to 14 |
| Height | 1 - 1.5 m |
| Spread | 0.6 to 1 m |
| Growth | Fast |
| Flowering Period | May, June, July, August, September, October, November |
Description and Growing Information
| General Description | A vigorous perennial that can flower year-round if provided the correct care. The small flowers that dot this plant perish after only a day. This plant has been categorized as invasive as it can quickly spread if not managed correctly. |
| Shape | Upright. |
| Landscape | Flower beds and borders. |
| Propagation | Propagate by stem cuttings, division, and seed. |
| Cultivation | Plant in full sun with moist, fertile, humus soil. |
| Pests | No notable pests or diseases. |
| Notable Specimens | Chelsea Physic Garden, London, United Kingdom. |
| Habitat | Grows in wet areas with considerable amounts of water, such as ponds, and drainage ditches. It can also commonly be found in wet woods. |
Photographs
Ruellia simplex, form. Chelsea Physic Garden, London, United Kingdom.
Ruellia simplex, leaf. Chelsea Physic Garden, London, United Kingdom.
Ruellia simplex, flower. Chelsea Physic Garden, London, United Kingdom.