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Conservatory Greenhouse

Ruellia makoyana
  • RHS AGM

monkey plant

A spreading, evergreen perennial to 60cm, with purple ovate leaves veined with silvery-grey, brighter purple beneath; flowers 5cm long, funnel-shaped, bright pink

Other common names
trailing velvet plant
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Grey Silver Purple
Summer Pink Grey Silver Purple
Autumn Grey Silver Purple
Winter Grey Silver Purple
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Acanthaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Ruellia can be perennials or shrubs, with simple, evergreen leaves sometimes attractively veined, and solitary or clustered, funnel-shaped flowers

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Under glass grow in containers using loamless potting such as multipurpose compost in bright filtered light with high humidity. Water freely during the growing season and apply balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. Water moderately in winter. Keep at minimum 12°C (54°F)

Propagation

Propagate by seed; sow seeds at 19-24°C (66-75°F) in spring. Take softwood cuttings in spring or early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

Pinch young shoots to encourage branching. Pruning group 10; after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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