perennial

Katie Ruellia

Ruellia brittoniana 'Katie'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

10 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Ruellia brittoniana 'Katie' is a perennial shrub known for its spreading habit, lance-shaped green foliage, and vibrant, trumpet-shaped purple flowers that bloom prolifically throughout the growing season. This cultivar is distinguished by its enhanced flower size and extended flowering period, making it especially attractive for attracting pollinators and adding vibrant color to garden borders.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Bright purple flowers add vibrant color to gardens, attracting insects and enhancing visual appeal.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, suitable for xeriscaping and sustainable landscapes.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Keep soil consistently moist during the first few weeks.
Mist cuttings regularly to promote root development.
Place in full sun for best flowering, 6 hours or more daily.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged
Use heavy, clay-based soil without amendment
Neglect pruning after bloom

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border with purple accentsDrought-tolerant garden edgeWildflower meadow element

Companion Plants

Salvia Coreopsis Lantana Gaillardia Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Katie Ruellia questions

What zones can Katie Ruellia grow in?

Katie Ruellia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Katie Ruellia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Katie Ruellia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Katie Ruellia bloom?

Katie Ruellia typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Katie Ruellia need full sun?

Katie Ruellia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Katie Ruellia drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Katie Ruellia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.