Mexican Petunia

Mexican petunia adds a dreamy pop of purple in the garden during a very long blooming season.

Although drought-tolerant once mature, it is happiest when it receives regular water. If you have a garden bed that frequently gets irrigated or a small pond in your yard, this flower will be very happy to grow in nearby areas.

Botanical name: Ruellia simplex

Other names: Britton’s petunia, Mexican bluebell, Ruellia brittoniana, Ruellia caerulea

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Mexican petunia is a flowering shrub that reaches about 3-4 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width.

Long, dark green leaves that taper at the tips may have purple edges where they meet the stems.

Green or purple stems become brown and woody as the plant matures.

Showy purple flowers have 5 petals and are approximately 2-3 inches in diameter.

Followed by small seedpods containing seeds.

Mexican petunia is a hardy flowering shrub that tolerates a wide range of conditions.

Enjoy long, reliable blooms in the Coachella Valley from spring to fall. Perennial in warm regions. Annual in cool regions.

It can be grown in moist soil. Good candidate for growing near ponds, bog gardens, and garden beds.

Drought-tolerant once mature.

Provide fertilizer formulated for flowers if grown in nutrient-depleted soil.

We recommend only doing heavy pruning in late winter. It will quickly rebound in the growing season.

Toxic for dogs and children if ingested.

Considered invasive in some parts of the country, such as in Florida and Hawaii.

Mexican petunia is from many regions across the Americas and the Caribbean.

Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil. Tolerates sandy and clay soils, but loamy is best.

Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 28 degrees for a short period of time. If frost damage occurs, prune damaged parts for regrowth. Performs well in the heat.

Water: Moderate watering needs. Tolerates drought. Can become invasive in wet climates.

Sun: Full sun. Partial shade is ok in the Palm Springs area.

Pests: Mexican petunia has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Squishy texture

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, few blooms

Mexican petunia is very easy to propagate via seeds. High germination rate.

How much does Mexican Petunia cost?

At our nursery, Mexican petunia is available for $20 in a 5-gallon container and $75 in a 15-gallon container.

Prices are subject to change. For the most up-to-date pricing information, please get in touch with us. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Is Mexican Petunia drought-tolerant?

Mexican petunia will produce more flowers and look healthier with regular water, but will tolerate drought once mature.

How should I prune the Mexican Petunia?

Provide regular pruning, especially the dead and dry parts, during the growing season if desired. Provide heavy pruning in late winter.