Host plant for:
Growing Zones
8A-10B
Light
Direct sun to fairly deep shade
Duration
Perennial
Size
6–18” tall
Ruellia caroliniensis, often known as Carolina wild petunia is an adaptable wildflower that thrives in a range of settings, including open forests, prairies, and roadsides, especially if the soil is well-drained. Ruellia caroliniensis, while not a real petunia, is an important species in natural environments. It offers nectar to pollinators and is a host plant for the Common Buckeye and White Peacock butterflies, making it an excellent addition to butterfly and native plant gardens.
Names:
Scientific Name: Ruellia caroliniensis
Plant Family: Acanthaceae (Acanthus family)
Native range:
Ruellia caroliniensis is native to the Southeast United States. Its natural habitats include Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, eastern Texas, and Tennessee.
Requirements
Water Needs: Low, Average. Drought tolerant when established.
Soil Drainage: Well drained
Soil Type: Sandy
Soil pH: Alkaline soil
