The Mexican petunia or Ruellia simplex is a shrub boasting a profusion of Petunia-like, vibrant lavender blue flowers, two inches across, from summer to fall. Born solitary or in clusters at the tips ...

Q: We have Mexican petunias, and all have suffered frost damage. How far should we prune them back? A: Contain Mexican petunia in a localized area, so it doesn’t spread. Cut it back close to the ...

Since there was no newsletter last week, here are two weeks of mystery plants: Mexican Petunia --Ruellia simplex is a perennial plant that takes care of itself and blooms all summer long.

Dear Neil: The enclosed plant came into our yard beneath our backyard fence. It grows about 3 feet tall and I’m wondering how to stop its spread. What is it? A: You now have Mexican petunia, Ruellia ...

Garden columnist Dan Gill answers readers' questions each week. To send a question, email Gill at dgill@agcenter.lsu.edu. I’m having an odd problem with my Mexican petunia plants. Nothing seems to ...

Gardeners looking for a showy summer ornamental with floriferous displays of blossoms and can take our Texas heat while growing in full sun might consider Mexican petunia, Ruellia brittoniana ...

Q: What is this plant with the purple flowers? It has invaded my flowerbed. More importantly, how can I get rid of it? It’s spreading like crazy. A: It’s Mexican petunia, Ruellia brittoniana. You’re ...

Since there was no newsletter last week, here are two weeks of mystery plants: Mexican Petunia --Ruellia simplex is a perennial plant that takes care of itself and blooms all summer long.