Ruellia simplex ‘Purple Showers’

This group of Ruellias are often referred to as Mexican Petunias but I don’t use that name because they are in a different plant family and not even closely related. They are popular because they flower continuously, grow in about any soil (including heavy wet soils), and usually over-winter here in Oklahoma. Purple Showers is a sterile selection that does not produce seed. Ruellias can spread a bit by underground rhizomes. They can also be used as thrillers in large containers. The genus honors Jean de la Ruelle, a French Herbalist and Physician.