Ruellia californica
California Ruellia
Description
An evergreen shrub grows to 4' tall by 4' wide. Many branches. Leaves are hairy on both surfaces. Flowers are purple, funnel- shaped and slightly fragrant. Plant will bloom nearly year round in warm climes. Tolerates light frost but can be disfigured or killed by a hard frost. Not attractive in winter but can rapidly regrow in spring. Native to the lower Sonoran desert.