Red ruellia - Ruellia elegans (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Red ruellia

Also known as: Wild petunia

Red ruellia (Ruellia elegans) is often used in pollinator gardens, as its scarlet flower show is loved by butterflies and hummingbirds. Since it's so eye-catching and deer resistant, it's also used in landscaping for beds, borders, and patio decoration. It's technically an annual plant, but since it reseeds easily and spread quickly, some actually consider it a perennial.

Scientific classification

Species

Red ruellia (Ruellia elegans)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Yellow

Fruit Color

Red

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Red ruellia

Distribution of Red ruellia

Distribution Map

Red ruellia, a plant originating from the tropical regions of South America, has established itself in various other tropical and subtropical locales. Its native habitat spans a broad portion of the continent, including Central and South America. As an introduced species, red ruellia has acclimatized to certain areas in the Caribbean and Africa. Additionally, red ruellia is widely cultivated in gardens and collections for its ornamental qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Red ruellia

Bright red trumpet-shaped flowers on wand-like stems (6-8 inches/15-20 cm tall)

Distinctive flower arrangement: upper petals flare outward, lower petal curls downward

Soft green leaves, lanceolate (1-3 inches/2.5-7.5 cm long, 0.5-1 inch/1.3-2.5 cm wide)

Leaves have a fuzzy texture, oppositely arranged with symmetrical veining

Visually striking star-like flower pattern with fragrant blooms (1-2 inches/2.5-5 cm long)

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Care Guide for Red ruellia

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red ruellia thrives in humid, tropical environments and requires weekly watering for optimal growth. This species can tolerate short dry periods. Best suited for warm climates, outdoor cultivation with mulching is recommended to retain soil moisture and minimize watering frequency.

Fertilize: For red ruellia, use high-phosphorus fertilizer quarterly during growth, reducing in cooler months. Apply a teaspoon per gallon of soil, watering beforehand to prevent root burn. Seasonal adjustments enhance vigor, with lighter feeding in fall to avoid over-fertilization that can harm blooming.

Pruning: Red ruellia features vibrant red tubular flowers and prefers well-drained soil. Prune in early to late spring to promote bushiness and remove weak stems. Regular trimming aids shape and blooming, but avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress. Cut back spent blooms and leggy growth for optimal health.

Propagation: Red ruellia is a vibrant perennial from the Acanthaceae family, propagated via stem cuttings. Select a robust non-flowering shoot, dip in rooting hormone, and place in well-draining soil. Maintain humidity for root formation, and acclimatize gradually once roots establish.

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Images of Red ruellia

Distribution of Red ruellia

Quickly Identify Red ruellia

Care Guide for Red ruellia

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