A native perennial of great character with flowers that will remind you of the annual non-native petunia bedding plant. Charming, low growing clumps produce light purple/lavender, tubular flowers from June to September. The flowers arise in groups at the leaf axis. The square stems and the leaves are both quite hairy—a natural defense against dry conditions.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Wild Petunia
Ruellia humilis
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Glade
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Purple
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Photo: Jaelithe Judy
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Food/Pollinators
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant
Size
Height:
4 to
12
inches
Spread:
6 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 4 to
12
inches
Spread: 6 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 4 to
12
inches
Spread: 6 to
12
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Establishment and Care Instructions
Full sun, hot dry conditions may seem harsh for this little plant, but it is tough! Part shade is tolerated, with reduced flowering. Try growing in a dry spot with afternoon sun and morning shade. Due to its size, be careful of exuberant neighbors, which can outcompete wild petunia.
Special Features
Special Usage
Ground Cover
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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What’s the Next Step?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.