Ruellia humilis – Wild Petunia, Prairie Petunia, Fringeleaf Wild Petunia

A dainty low-growing native, its lavender blossoms are a bright spot in the garden in early summer. A nice border plant, or edging plant near doorways. Naturally occurring in much of the Central and Eastern United States. Although technically not a Petunia, this cheerful perennial is very similar in appearance to the cultivated Petunia. They are usually not more than 12″ tall, but under ideal conditions they can grow a little taller, and can spread fairly quickly. A nice choice for a ground cover, it will also reseed under ideal conditions. Plants are self-fertile. It needs a sunny spot with well-drained soil; will not tolerate wet conditions. Seeds are said to pop into the air when mature, and according to some, can travel upwards of 10 feet.

Attracts a wide array of insect pollinators, including long-tongued Bees and Butterflies.

Lilac to lavender-colored blossoms are short-lived, but produced in abundance. Late-season flowers will also occasionally develop

Useful as a groundcover for sunny locations, in rock gardens, beds, naturalized areas, and borders, as well as in containers.

Prefers Full Sun.

Blooms June, July, and August.