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 ...

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.

Q. This is our first year for three Mexican petunias, and they appear to have done well. Now that fall/winter is here, we don’t know what to do with them. Are you supposed to cut them back and let ...

Dear Roger: If anyone knows what this plant is, I knew you would. I saw it down at the beach. It is absolutely beautiful. If you could send me some information, it would be greatly appreciated. — ...

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 ...

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 ...

DEAR NEIL: How deep would edging have to be to stop Mexican petunia from spreading? I saw it in a yard in Houston last fall and really liked it, but several people have told me that it’s really ...

Machu Morado is one of the most intriguing new plants in both name and performance. In reality, it is a dream come true, but I’ll explain. First it is a Mexican petunia or Ruellia, the gregarious ...

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

Gardening is a fun hobby because there are so many great plants to grow. We grow plants for the food that they produce for us and wildlife, for their fragrant flowers, for the shade they provide. Then ...

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.