Garden Oracle / Drought and Heat Tolerant Gardening / Tucson - Phoenix - Arizona - California

Growing Ruellia californica subsp. peninsularis:
Desert Ruellia

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Description
Form: Shrub.
Leaf retention: Evergreen to cold-deciduous.
Growth rate: Moderate.
Mature Size: 2-5' (0.6-1.5m) high and as wide.
Flowers: Blue or purple, trumpet-shaped, 1" (2.5cm) long and wide, five lobes.
Bloom: All year in regions without freezes. The largest bloom is in the spring.
Fruit: A capsule containing many small seeds.
Leaves: Green, downy, soft.
Wildlife: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 9-11. This plant is severely damaged at 20°F (-6.7°C).
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade.
Soil: Well draining, dry, pH 5.6-8.5 (acidic to alkaline).
Water once established: Once or twice a month, accommodating for rain. More frequent water produces more blooms. The soil should dry out between waterings.
Planting: This plant can be grown in large container.
Prune: After the last frost, remove winter damage and shape.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed or cuttings / layering.
Uses: Ornamental.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Acanthus family (Acanthaceae). Its scientific synonym is Ruellia peninsularis. Other common names are Desert Petunia and Baja Ruellia. It is related to Mexican Honeysuckle.
This species is non-invasive, unlike Ruellia brittoniana, a moderate water plant with long, glossy leaves.



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Ruellia californica subsp. peninsularis: Desert Ruellia - flower

Ruellia californica subsp. peninsularis: Desert Ruellia shrub

Latest update: September, 2024
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