Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Melastomataceae

Genus:

Rhexia

Species:

Rhexia petiolata

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun, jul, aug, sep, oct, nov

Bloom Colors:

Pink, Purple

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

moist, sandy, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

good drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

commonly found in wetland areas