Red Christmas Pride
Ruellia elegans
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Central and South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Ruellia elegans, commonly known as Red Christmas Pride, is a perennial flowering plant known for its vibrant red tubular flowers and lush, dark green foliage. It is characterized by its ability to bloom profusely from summer to fall and attract hummingbirds, making it a versatile choice for gardens in warm climates.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Plant in well-drained soil with partial sun for optimal growth.
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth and more blooms.
Pro Tip
Use a rich, well-draining soil mix and ensure ample sunlight for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant and promote new growth
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
- Do not expose to excessive drought without supplemental watering
- Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy periods
- Avoid heavy pruning in late fall or winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Christmas Pride questions
What zones can Red Christmas Pride grow in?
Red Christmas Pride is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Christmas Pride deer resistant?
Yes — Red Christmas Pride is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Christmas Pride bloom?
Red Christmas Pride 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 Red Christmas Pride need full sun?
Red Christmas Pride does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Christmas Pride drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Christmas Pride handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Ruellia to compare
Wild Petunia
Ruellia humilis
Tall Purple Ruellia
Ruellia brittoniana 'Tall Purple Form'
Ruellia Strawberries and Cream
Ruellia brittoniana 'Strawberries and Cream'
White Wild Petunia
Ruellia malacosperma 'White Flower Form'
Chi Chi Mexican Petunia
Ruellia brittoniana 'Chi Chi'
Pink Mexican Petunia
Ruellia brittoniana 'Colobe Pink'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red Christmas Pride with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
