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Description
Ruellia Humilis, also known as Wild Petunia or Fringeleaf Wild Petunia, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. This plant is known for its small, purple, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from spring to fall. Its leaves are green and lance-shaped, with a slightly hairy texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Ruellia |
Appearance
Ruellia Humilis can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its purple flowers are about 1 inch long and appear in clusters at the end of the stems. The leaves are approximately 2-4 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. They have a slightly hairy texture and are arranged in an opposite pattern on the stem. The stem is green and can be slightly hairy as well.
Care Guide
Water
Ruellia Humilis requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. It prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize Ruellia Humilis once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If the soil is too alkaline, it can cause nutrient deficiencies.
Sunlight
Ruellia Humilis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as much.
Hardiness Zones
This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ruellia Humilis is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To prevent these pests, make sure to keep the plant clean and remove any dead or damaged leaves. If necessary, use an insecticidal soap to get rid of the pests.
Habitat
Ruellia Humilis is native to North America and can be found in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. It prefers to grow in well-draining soil in full sun to partial shade. This plant is commonly found in prairies, open woods, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ruellia Humilis toxic to pets?
A: Ruellia Humilis is not toxic to pets.
Q: How often should I water my Ruellia Humilis plant?
A: Water your Ruellia Humilis plant moderately, especially during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Ruellia Humilis indoors?
A: Ruellia Humilis is not ideal for indoor growth as it prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: How do I propagate Ruellia Humilis?
A: You can propagate Ruellia Humilis through division or stem cuttings.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Ruellia genus include:
- Ruellia tuberosa (Miner’s Root)
- Ruellia brittoniana (Mexican Petunia)
- Ruellia caroliniensis (Carolina Wild Petunia)
References
- “Ruellia humilis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. University of Texas at Austin, n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Ruellia humilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Ruellia humilis (Wild petunia).” Plants for a Future. Plants for a Future, n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2021.
