Mexican petunia (Ruellia brittoniana 'Purple Showers') roo-EL-lee-a brit-tone-ee-AY-nah Genus:  Ruellia This three-foot-tall evergreen shrub bears many tubular, blue or purple, petunia-like flowers on dark stems over a long period. Each flower lasts for just one day. It is a fast grower that may self-seed aggressively. Use in a border, container, or at waterside. Can be grown as an annual in cooler areas. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Petunia-like flowers from spring to frost. Native to Mexico and the southwestern U.S.              Care:  Ruellia needs a warm climate. Site in partial shade and fertile, consistently moist, but well-drained soil. Propagation:  Seed or softwood cuttings in spring. Self-sows aggressively if conditions are right. Problems:  Nothing serious.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Pace Fast Grower, Invasive/Aggressive Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium to Wet Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Late Spring, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Blue, Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Suitable as Annual, Waterside Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Perennials