Metz’s Wild Petunia – Ruellia metziae

Also known as Wild White Petunia or White Ruellia, Metz’s Wild Petunia (Ruellia metziae) is a perennial wildflower native to Texas and northeastern Mexico. It is often seen in prairies, open woods and fields.

This species of Ruellia displays pale white blooms. Although the blooms are similar, this tropical bloomer is only a distant cousin of the common garden petunia.

The fragrant blooms of Metz’s Wild Petunia are highly attractive to birds, butterflies and bees. The plant tends to be deer-resistant.

Deadhead spent blooms regularly. Like most species of Ruellia, Metz’s Wild Petunia self-seeds readily and can become weedy.

Descriptions

• Seedlings - No information.
• Stems - No information.
• Leaves - Bright green, ovoid
• Flowers - Small, five-lobed, fragrant
• Fruits - No information.
• Seeds - No information.
• Roots - No information.

Plant Details

• Type - Perennial
• USDA Zones - No information.
• Flower Colors - Pure white, pale off-white
• Plant Height - 12 inches
• Plant Width - No information.
• Bloomtime Period - Midsummer
• Native Habitat - Mexico, Texas
• Toxicity and allergic reactions - No information.
• What Parts Toxic - No information.
• Toxic to humans - No information.
• Toxic to cats - No information.
• Toxic to dogs - No information.
• Edible - No information.
• Edible Parts - No information.
• Spacing - No information.
• Planting Depth - No information.
• Invasive - Self-seeds readily
• Special Features - No information.

Growing Information

• Light Requirement - Full sun to full shade
• Soil Requirements - Tolerates a range of soil types.
• Care Information - Tolerates neglect. Deadhead regularly to prevent rampant self-seeding
• Propagation Methods - Seeds
• Harvest Information - No information.
• Seed Collection Information - No information.
• Pruning - No information.
• Common Pests - No information.
• Common Diseases - No information.
• Landscape Uses - Wildflower gardens, mixed borders

Facts & Trivia