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Description
Ruellia Strepens, also known as creeping ruellia, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to Central America and can be found in various parts of the world, including the southern United States, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant is characterized by its creeping stems, which can grow up to 3 feet long, and its purple-blue flowers that bloom throughout the year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Ruellia |
Appearance
Ruellia Strepens has a sprawling growth habit, with its stems reaching up to 3 feet long. The plant’s leaves are dark green, ovate, and grow up to 3 inches long. Its flowers are tubular and purple-blue in color, with white throats and yellow stamens. The flowers bloom throughout the year, but they are most prolific during the summer and fall months.
Care Guide
To care for Ruellia Strepens, you need to provide the plant with adequate water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and ensure it is in the right hardiness zone.Water: Ruellia Strepens requires moderate watering. You should water the plant once a week during the summer months and once every two weeks during the winter months.Fertilization: You can fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can mix in compost or peat moss to improve the soil’s quality.Sunlight: Ruellia Strepens grows best in partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun. It is important to ensure that the plant receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests and Diseases
Ruellia Strepens is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, whiteflies, and leaf spot.Spider mites: These pests can be controlled with a pesticide specifically formulated for mites.Whiteflies: These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Leaf spot: This disease can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Ruellia Strepens is native to Central America and can be found in various parts of the world, including the southern United States, where it is considered an invasive species. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ruellia Strepens a good plant for ground cover?
A: Yes, Ruellia Strepens is an excellent plant for ground cover due to its sprawling growth habit.
Q: Can Ruellia Strepens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ruellia Strepens can be grown in containers as long as it has adequate drainage and receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ruellia Strepens?
A: You can fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Does Ruellia Strepens attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Ruellia Strepens is known to attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Related Plants
- Ruellia Brittoniana
- Ruellia Tuberosa
- Ruellia Devosiana
References
- “Ruellia Strepens.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp181
- “Ruellia Strepens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b620
- “Ruellia Strepens.” Texas Invasive Species Institute. https://www.tsusinvasives.org/home/database/ruellia-strepens
