There might not be an easier flower for your pots or garden beds.
Ruellia is hardy in Zones 8 to 10 (USDA).
These plants resist damage by browsing deer.
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Plant ruellia in spring once the danger of frost has passed.
Ruellia grows well in our humid Southern climate and likes regular moisture and well-drained soil.
It forms large clumps with spreading roots, and its seed capsules scatter seed.
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Light
When planted infull sun, ruellia will flower profusely.
It grows well in partial shade, too, but will produce fewer blooms.
Soil
Ruellia grows best inneutral to acidic soilthat drains well.
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This plant is not picky, and it will grow in most conditions.
Water
Ruellia is known to survive and thrive in spite of flooding or even drought conditions.
But for best results in your garden, provide regular water in soil that is rich and well-drained.
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They arent cold hardy and wont perform as a perennial above Zone 7 (USDA).
Here, they make a great potted annual.
In other areas, cut ruellia down to the ground after its foliage dies from frost.
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Plants that produce seeds should be trimmed to remove seeds when they appear to control spread.
Propagating Ruellia
Ruellia is easy to propagate throughcuttingsand division, which should be done in spring.
It is prohibited to propagate trademarked cultivars.
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They are easy to start indoors during winter.
Start with moist seed-starting mix.
Sow seeds 12 inches apart and cover lightly with the mix.
Place them in a bright, warm location, about 72-76 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep the soil mix moist for about 10 days until germination.
Acclimate the seedlings to the outdoors once they are a few inches tall.
Potting and Repotting Ruellia
There are two good reasons to grow ruellia in apot.
The first is to prevent the plant from spreading.
The second is to enjoy ruellia when youre just outside its recommended growing zone.
Water regularly to keep moist.
Overwintering Ruellia
Overwintering ruellia is not cold-hardy so protect it during any surprise cold spells.
Water only when the soil is dry, and bring the plant indoors during threat of cold weather.
Reacclimate the plant to the outdoors come spring.
Ruellia grown in warm climates does not needextra care during winter.
Common Pests
This easy-care plant has few issues with pests and diseases.
Watch out for white splotches that resemble paint on the leaves.
It can indicate a mite infestation.
The tiny mites cause white fuzz to appear.
Remove severely affected leaves and treat with horticultural oil.
This tells the plant to redirect its energy into making more blooms.
Each flower lasts about a day, but the quantity of blooms will never leave you wanting for more.
Common Problems With Ruellia
Ruellia needs so little and spreads with ease.
It has few problems.
It can be hard to control or eradicate in some areas once it is established.
Also, be on the lookout for browning leaves.
They may indicate damage.
Aggressive Spreading
It forms large clumps with spreading roots, and its seed capsules scatter seed.
In wet and unmanaged areas, it can be invasive, and is counted amonginvasive plantsin Florida.
Browning Leaves
Cold weather can damage the plants, resulting in brown leaves.
Remove any damaged foliage and move the plant to a warmer location to help it regrow healthy new leaves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Native plants make good alternatives for ruellia.
Its reddish flowersattract bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
It can tolerate dry and moist soils.
Grow it in pollinator or woodland gardens, containers, or rock gardens.
Tryconeflower(Echinacea purpurea) and beardtongue (Penstemon).
NC State Extension.Ruellia simplex.
University of Florida.Plants and intellectual property.
