Acanthaceae
Carolina wild-petunia
Ruellia caroliniensis
Synonyms
Ruellia parviflora
Ruellia caroliniensis ssp. caroliniensis var. caroliniensis
Other Common Names
common wild-petunia, hairy ruellia
Plant Type
Herbaceous Wildflower
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
1-3 ft. tall
0.5-1 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Drought, Occasional Flooding
Inolerant of
Direct Afternoon Sun
Propagation
By seed, By cutting, By division
Plant Planting Notes
Provide up to 1 ft spacing, but also plant in an area where spreading by seed is desirable.
Plants/Diseases
No significant disease or pest issues.
Wildlife Benefits
Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae
Leaves
Leaves opposite, ovate with entire margins. Not hairy.
Flowers
Purple to lavender tube-shaped flowers with 5 petals resembling petunias.
Toxicity
No known toxicity.
USDA Hardiness Zones
6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Light Exposure
Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture
Dry, Medium
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil pH
Acidic (less than 6.0)
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Dry to moist forests and woodlands.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Common throughout South Carolina