Purple Mexican Petunia Ruellia brittoniana, host for Common Buckeye
Junonia coenia and nectar source for several butterfly species..

Pink Mexican Petunia Ruellia brittoniana, host for Common Buckeye
Junonia coenia and nectar source for several butterfly species.

Botanical Name: Ruellia brittoniana

Common Names: Mexican Petunia, Tropical Petunia

Plant type: Perennial tender shrub

Light: Sun, light shade

Size: Up to 4' for the taller variety, 12" for shorter Mexican Petunia

Zones: 8 - 11 Water: Average, tolerates dry soil

Soil: Grows best in rich moist soil

Bloom: Purple, Pink, White flowers and blooms. Propagation: Seed, cuttings, division

Note: Host or larval food plant for Common Buckeye Junonia coenia butterfly caterpillars and a nectar source for many butterfly species.