Annuals

Ruellia simplex

Mexican petunia

Representative mexican petunia. Colors and forms vary by selection.

Purple, petunia-like flowers appear above narrow green leaves from summer into fall. Each bloom lasts just a day, but new flowers keep opening. This tropical plant tolerates wetter ground than many annuals; grow it in a container to manage its vigorous rhizomes and self-sown seedlings.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Mature size: Height: 2–3 ft. in gardens; wild plants may reach 4 ft. (varies by selection) · Spread: 2 ft.–3 ft. (varies by selection)
Water: Moist to wet; also tolerates some drying once established
Bloom: Summer, fall

Sizes & prices

8"$14.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Usually less favored; not browse-proof.
Drought: Tolerant once established; containers still need watering.
Wet soil: Tolerates wet conditions.
Heat: Tolerant.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Keep in mind: Can spread by rhizomes and self-seeding; grow in a container and remove unwanted seedlings.

Growing & care

Pruning: Cut back stems after flowering to encourage fresh bloom; remove unwanted spreading shoots.
Soil & drainage: Adaptable to moist or wet soil.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

Photo: Alejandro Bayer Tamayo · CC-BY-SA 2.0

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.