Is ruellia purple showers invasive?

Plants will spread by rhizomes and self-seeding in the garden, and have escaped gardens and aggressively naturalized in parts of the southeastern U.S. Notwithstanding its value as an excellent flowering plant, this species is currently listed as a Category One invasive species by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council ( …

Does ruellia spread?

Requirements for Growing Ruellia This upright to spreading perennial can be propagated via seed, vegetative cuttings, or root divisions and should be trimmed to tame the self-seeding, rampant growth.

How do you care for Ruellia simplex?

The best approach is for watering just enough to keep the soil consistently moist. While these plants are sturdy and can go without water for a long time, young petunia ruellia simplex needs regular watering. During the colder months of the year, refrain from overwatering and only wet when the soil is visibly dry.

Is ruellia a perennial?

ruellia humilis Shrubby perennial. Native to central U.S. Grows 12 feet tall and wide, with oval to lance-shaped leaves 14 inches long. Bears 2 inches-long bluish flowers from early summer into fall.

What is a Mexican petunia?

The Mexican petunia (Ruellia brittoniana) is a fast grower, quickly spreading through seeds and rhizomes. Because of their fast growth, these plants are considered invasive. Common Name. Mexican petunia. Botanical Name.

How do you prune a Ruellia simplex?

With a sharp, clean blade, cut a healthy-looking stem just below a node, four to six inches from the end. Strip off any leaves near the bottom of the stem, and remove the bloom.

Is Ruellia the same as Mexican petunia?

At first glance, you might mistake Mexican petunias for common garden flowers. But Mexican petunias are actually Ruellia simplex, fast-growing perennials with green to purple stems and green leaves.

Should Ruellia be pruned?

Mexican petunias (Ruellia brittoniana) are considered invasive plants in some areas since they easily spread seed and grow. However, if you want to encourage fuller plants that bloom more and you have them under control (e.g., they’re not near your neighbor’s yard), you can certainly prune them, if desired.

How do you plant Ruellia simplex?

Sow R. simplex seeds in early spring, after all danger of frost has passed. Plant one to two seeds for each expected plant, spaced 12 inches apart.

Are Mexican petunias illegal?

But Mexican petunias are actually Ruellia simplex, fast-growing perennials with green to purple stems and green leaves. The wild, invasive form of this plant is so aggressive, it’s banned in some states, and it’s on a watch list of invasive plants in others.

What does a Purple Petunia mean?

What Does a Purple Petunia Mean? Purple petunias symbolize fantasy, charm, and mystery. This flower has mysterious, whimsical connotations, and it can also be used to represent grace and eloquence, too.

Is Mexican petunia invasive?

The wild, invasive form of this plant is so aggressive, it’s banned in some states, and it’s on a watch list of invasive plants in others. The state of Florida lists Mexican petunias as “highly invasive.” Native to Mexico and western South America, Ruellia simplex, also known as R.