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Ruellia coerulea

Family Acanthaceae
Plant Type tender perennial
Zone USDA:   8a - 11   RHS:   H - FT   EGF:   H4 - G2   Australia:   2 - 5  
Care Level
Height 15 - 90 cm (0.5 - 3 ft)
Spread 0.6 - 1 m (2 - 3 ft)
Light full sun to partial shade
Soil Moisture average, well-drained
Soil Type loam to sandy
Soil pH acidic to neutral

Description The tender perennial Ruellia coerulea (Mexican petunia) produces showy, bright red and repeat-blooming blossoms during early spring to late autumn. This plant is a thicket in form and has matte, fine textured and evergreen foliage that is deep green in colour.
Typical Uses Border, container, ground cover and tropical.
Special Characteristics Hummingbirds and butterflies are attracted to Ruellia coerulea . Ruellia coerulea is tolerant of drought, wet sites, compacted soil and pollution.
Cautions When planning your garden, take into consideration that Ruellia coerulea (Mexican petunia) grows at a fast rate and will fill its designated space quickly. Where conditions are favourable, Ruellia coerulea (Mexican petunia) can be invasive and may require maintenance to keep it under control. This plant is self-sowing and may spread broadly and randomly.