Mexican petunia - Ruellia simplex (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Mexican petunia

Also known as: Texas Petunia, Mexican blue bells, Britton's wild petunia

Mexican petunia (Ruellia simplex) is an evergreen herbaceous perennial recognized by its wrinkly, trumpet-shaped purple flowers. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant. Due to its vigorous spreading ability, Ruellia simplex has become widely naturalized outside Mexico. It is considered an invasive species in many countries.

Scientific classification

Species

Mexican petunia (Ruellia simplex)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

91 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Purple

Leaf Color

8 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Purple

Fruit Color

Purple, Lavender

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Mexican petunia

Distribution of Mexican petunia

Distribution Map

The mexican petunia originates from the South and Central America where it grows in sunny fields and meadows. It was introduced into parts of Asia. It is an invasive species in the Florida where it has escaped cultivation and is pushing native plants out of the affected areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Ditches, Pond verges, Lakesides, Marshes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Mexican petunia is grown ornamentally often for its attractive lilac flowers. However, this plant is an aggressive grower so using a container to control growth is strongly advised. Other quick-growing flowers like butterfly weed and pale purple coneflower make good partners for mexican petunia. It is well suited to prairie, meadow, and rock gardens.

Symbolism

Resentment, Anger, Reconciliation, Your presence soothes me.

Interesting Facts

Mexican petunia gets its name from the French botanist *Jean de la Ruelle. *It is considered invasive in Florida, where it was likely originally grown as an ornamental species before becoming a weed. In Florida, there is an alternative *Ruella *species sold for ornamental purposes instead of the invasive weed, called Ruellia caroliniensis. This alternative requires less water and has smaller flowers.

Name Story

Mexican petunia: As a plant in the Ruellia genus, its flowers and very similar to petunia, and its height can reach about 91 cm. Hence, petunia appears as part of the name. As it is also native to Mexico, it is called Mexican petunia.

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Quickly Identify Mexican petunia

Distinctive violet petunia-like flowers lasting one day, 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

Long, cylinder-like fruit capsules, 1 inch (2.54 cm) in length, with explosive seed dispersal.

Linear leaves, 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) long, dark green with purplish veins.

Stems up to 39 inches (100 cm) tall, branching from base with smooth texture.

Herbaceous perennial reaching 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) height, with glossy lance-shaped leaves.

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Care Guide for Mexican petunia

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from humid environments, mexican petunia thrives with consistent moisture, needing a watering schedule of twice a week for optimal growth. While typically grown outdoors, mexican petunia can adapt to indoor settings with proper humidity. It displays moderate drought tolerance, withstanding short dry periods.

Fertilize: Fertilize mexican petunia every 4-6 weeks with balanced nutrition fertilizers (10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK) during spring and summer. Reduce in fall and avoid winter application. Use 1/2 tsp per gallon on moist soil. Over-fertilization can hinder blooms; consider slow-release options for pots.

Pruning: Mexican petunia is a hardy perennial with vibrant purple flowers and an invasive growth habit. Prune in early to late spring to control spread and promote blooming. Regular pruning enhances air circulation and plant health, ensuring a neat growth pattern in gardens.

Propagation: Mexican petunia can be easily propagated via stem cuttings. Trim a healthy, non-flowering shoot, burying a few nodes in moist soil. Consistent watering supports root growth. Perform cuttings in early morning or late afternoon to avoid strong sunlight. Rooting hormone may improve success but isn't essential.

Repotting: Mexican petunia flourishes with bushy growth and should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring. Use a pot 2 inches larger, well-draining soil, and provide ample sunlight. Water moderately, as mexican petunia tolerates drought but benefits from consistent moisture post-repotting.

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Images of Mexican petunia

Distribution of Mexican petunia

Culture

Quickly Identify Mexican petunia

Care Guide for Mexican petunia

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