Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Acanthaceae

Genus:

Ruellia

Species:

Ruellia blechum

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

may, jun, jul, aug

Bloom Colors:

lavender, purple

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Florida, Guam, Hawaii, Louisiana, Puerto Rico, Palau, Virgin Islands

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

prefers shaded or semi-shaded areas