Ruellia strepens
Ruellia strepens, also known as wild petunia or smooth ruellia, is native to Texas. In the northern part of the state, it is most commonly found in rich open woods, thickets, and along streams and ponds. This clump-forming perennial is glabrous to sparingly hairy. It grows 1-3' tall. The flowers are pale lilac to lavender color, with five flaring lobes, and are up to 2" long. In the leaf axils, flowers bloom from May to September. Leaves are opposite, oval, and up to 6" long.
The plant thrives in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in part shade. Tolerates close to full shade.
Height: 1’-3'
Spread 1’-1.5’
Bloom: May-September
Light: Part Shade, Dappled Shade
Water: Moderate
Zone: 5, 6, 7, 8
Origin: Central North America
Deer Resistant: No
