
Ruellia caroliniensis

Introduction
Wild Petunia is a native wildflower found throughout Florida in native woodlands. They spread and are known as strong growers under adverse conditions. Blue/violet or white flowers appear on this perennial in the spring, summer and fall. These flowers are showy, and their nectar is appealing to various species of butterflies. Wild petunia’s flower only last for a day, but they have a very long flowering period, starting in early spring and going strong through the fall. Please use this Florida native instead of its widely-sold relative, the invasive Mexican petunia.
General Information
Scientific name: Ruellia caroliniensis
Pronunciation: roo-EL-lee-uh kair-roe-lin-nee-EN-sis
Common name(s): Wild Petunia Family: Acanthaceae
Plant type: perennial; herbaceous
Origin: native to Florida Uses: ground cover; mass planting; attracts butterflies; hanging basket; cascading down a wall
Description
Height: .5 to 1 feet
Spread: 1 to 2 feet
Plant habit: spreading
Plant density: moderate
Growth rate: moderate
Texture: fine