Species ruellia

ruellia

Ruellia geminiflora

Ruellia (Ruellia geminiflora) is a shrubby plant native to Mexico and Central America. It produces pink or red flowers in the summer, typically growing in dense clusters along stiff, slender stems. The flowers give off a sweet, spicy scent when in bloom and attract many hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Its glossy green leaves are simple, alternate in arrangement, and each boasts three lobes at the tip. Known as one of the toughest plants, the Ruellia can withstand drought and full sun exposure, making it a great choice for gardens with hot, dry climates.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 12

Flowers:

Violet-blue to white Flowers

Sun:

full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

watering

Ruellia requires moderate amounts of water throughout the season. During the summer months, the plant should be watered approximately once a week with the soil kept lightly moist. During the winter months, watering should be reduced, with only occasional light watering. Avoid over-watering the plant, as root rot can occur.

sunlight

For optimal growth, Ruellia Geminiflora should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Full sun is preferable, but partial shade can work as well. Morning sun is considered the best type of sunlight for Ruellia Geminiflora, so it is best to provide it with the sunniest spot in your garden for most of the morning. When grown indoors, it is best to place the plant near a south or west-facing window with access to direct sunlight.

pruning

Ruellia (Ruellia geminiflora) should be pruned twice yearly, once in late spring and again in late summer. The late spring pruning should involve removing any dead or damaged stems. In the late summer pruning, you should reduce the plant's size and shape, as well as remove any spent flowers. For ruellia, it is generally best to avoid pruning too heavily in a single season since it can cause excessive stress to the plant. As a general rule of thumb, try to remove no more than 1/3 of the total stems at a time.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Ruellia geminiflora typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Ruellia geminiflora typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map