Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Acanthaceae

Genus:

Ruellia

Species:

Ruellia caroliniensis

USDA Symbol:

RUCA4

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

91 cm

Light Requirements:

Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

may,jun,jul,aug,sep

Bloom Colors:

purple, blue, lavender

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

prefers open woodlands and sandy soils

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

None required

Germination Time:

7–30 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate readily without pretreatment; surface sow on moist soil.