Thai Ruellia (Ruellia elegans): Coral-Red Blooms for Moist, Shady Spots

Thai Ruellia: Elegant Coral Flowers for Warm, Moist Gardens

Ruellia elegans is a tender perennial from tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, grown for its open-faced, coral-red blossoms that appear from late spring through fall. The delicate, funnel-shaped flowers often feature dark veins. Reaching 18 inches tall and wide, it forms a bushy mound of attractive foliage.

Versatile Growing Options

• Outdoors: Moist, fertile soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates boggy conditions, high heat, and humidity.
• Indoors: Bright filtered light, high humidity. Pinch for bushiness; prune back after flowering.
• Containers: Excellent for pots, hanging baskets, and waterside plantings.

Care & Propagation

• Water: Medium to wet; keep consistently moist
• Propagation: Softwood cuttings in spring/early summer; seed at 66–75°F
• Maintenance: Low

Potential Problems

Bacterial and fungal leaf spots, rust, root rot in poorly drained conditions.

Quick Reference

Height/Spread:	1–3 ft.
Bloom Time:	Late spring through fall
Flower Color:	Coral red
Foliage:	Evergreen
Attracts:	Songbirds, butterflies, hummingbirds
Uses:	Borders, containers, indoor plant, waterside, cottage/woodland gardens