Ruellia californica (J R Rose) I M Johnston
Rama Parda, Sonoran Desert Ruellia, Purple Ruellia, Wild Petunia, Purple Petunia
Rama parda is native to Baja California, Mexico.
Identification: These evergreen shrubs are 24-48" (60-121 cm) high, and are common in arroyos. Leaves are 6-12" (15-30 cm) long and only ½-¾" (1.3-1.9 cm) wide, like grass blades (“lanceolate”). Leaves are dark green to metallic blue in color. Blooms are trumpet-shaped, bright purple, similar in appearance to petunias. Each flower is about 1-2" (2.5-5 cm) around. When crushed, the resinous leaves have a strong odor.
Ruellia californica at George and Audrey DeLange's Arizona wildflower site
Ruellia californica on Desert-tropicals.com
Ruellia californica on the Madrean Archipelago Biodiversity Assessment
Ruellia californica at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum Sonoran Desert Digital Library
Ruellia californica description by Thomas H. Kent, last updated 16 Aug 2013.
Range: Zones 9-9b: