Descanso GardenClub

Ruellia

Mexican Petunia for Descanso Gardens

Mexican Petunia (Ruellia brittoniana )is a mid-summer blooming semi-shrub. It has deep purple blooms and does attract hummingbirds. It looks wonderful tucked under tall orange Asclepias, or with helianthus.

• CULTIVATION:
  • Location: Plant in full sun or partial shade.
  • Soil: Well drained, fertile, moist, rich in humus.
  • Water: Water freely while in growth, moderately in winter.
  • Pruning: Pinch back young shoots in spring. This makes the bush, more compact.
• PROPAGATION:
  • Ruellia may be started from seed in spring. It may be also started from softwood cuttings in early summer.
• PROBLEMS:
  • Gophers like Ruellia.
• SOURCES:
  • Local nurseries and mail order sources.

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