Ruellia simplex 'Purple Showers' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in April or May.
Mexican petunia
Ruellia simplex 'Purple Showers'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
8 - 10
Flowers:
Purple Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,purple
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Water Mexican petunia (Ruellia simplex 'Purple Showers') consistently once every week or so during the growing season to keep the soil moist. Generally, water the plant until the soil is saturated and water puddles on the surface. During extremely hot weather, you may need to water the plant more frequently. In the winter months, water only when the top inch or 2 of soil is dry.
sunlight
Mexican petunia (Ruellia simplex 'Purple Showers') grows best in full sunlight, which means 6 to 8 hours of sun per day. Morning sun is best, but afternoon sun is also acceptable as long as it is not too intense. The Mexican petunia will also thrive in partial shade and needs protection from the hot afternoon sun in areas with intense sunlight. When grown in shady conditions, the plant can become spindly and will produce fewer blooms.
pruning
Mexican Petunia (Ruellia simplex 'Purple Showers') should be pruned once the flowering season is winding down. This is typically late spring or early summer, but it can vary depending on your local climate. Pruning should be done moderately, removing dead or damaged stems and up to 1 third of the plants' tallest stems. Additionally, several “refreshment” prunings throughout the growing season can reduce the overall size of the plant.