Description

• Ruellia is a genus of flowering plants in the acanthus family (Acanthaceae), comprising herbaceous perennials, annuals, and small shrubs.

• The leaves are typically opposite, simple, and entire or slightly toothed, with shapes ranging from oval to lance-shaped.

• The flowers are often showy and trumpet-shaped, with five fused petals. They may be purple, blue, pink, white, or occasionally yellow, depending on the species.

• The fruits are elongated capsules that split open when mature, releasing seeds that may be dispersed by water or expelled when the capsules become wet.

• Several species are cultivated as ornamentals, while others grow naturally in tropical and subtropical habitats.

Range

• The genus is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, Asia, and other warm regions, depending on the species.

• Mexico has a rich diversity of Ruellia species, including species native to the region of Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Species occur in tropical dry forests, moist forests, scrub, grasslands, woodland margins, and disturbed habitats.

• Many grow in sunny openings or partially shaded areas, often in well-drained soils.

• Some species favour moist ground near streams and forest edges, while others tolerate seasonally dry conditions.