Perennial
Carolina Wild Petunia
Ruellia caroliniensis
Varieties We Carry
PurpleRuellia caroliniensisStandardRuellia caroliniensis
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Apr 13.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade
WaterLow
Mature size1-2.5 feet × 1-2 feet
About Carolina Wild Petunia
Florida wild petunia (Ruellia caroliniensis) is a native perennial wildflower of the southeastern United States, bearing lavender-blue, funnel-shaped flowers that resemble petunias atop slender, hairy stems. It thrives in a range of habitats from dry sandy soils to moist flatwoods edges. A valuable native plant for pollinator gardens, providing nectar and serving as a larval host for the common buckeye butterfly. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Thrives in full sun to part shade across NE Florida. In sandy, open sites it performs well in full sun; in shadier woodland edges it still blooms reliably. Adaptable to the range of light conditions found in NE Florida gardens.
Water
Very drought-tolerant once established in NE Florida's sandy soils — a key advantage in Florida's dry seasons. Water regularly during establishment; thereafter, natural rainfall generally meets its needs. Avoid overwatering or wet, compacted soils.
Soil & Fertilizer
Naturally adapted to NE Florida's infertile sandy soils; no heavy fertilization needed. A light application of balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring encourages vigorous growth. Good drainage is essential — avoid clay-heavy or waterlogged sites.
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Purple Thistle
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Snow Squarestem
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Common questions
Is Carolina Wild Petunia a good plant for St. Augustine?
Carolina Wild Petunia is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-2.5 feet × 1-2 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.