Ruellia foetida
Care, watering, light and tips for Ruellia foetida on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Ruellia foetida
Ruellia foetida, commonly known as Tronador, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Acanthaceae family. It is characterized by its dark green, slightly hairy leaves and its tubular violet or lavender-blue flowers that attract pollinators. It is ideal for garden borders, hanging baskets, or as ground cover in partial shade areas.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It prefers partial or indirect shade, although it can tolerate some morning sun. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root rot; water when the top layer of the substrate feels dry to the touch. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is exposure to full sun, which can scorch its leaves and reduce flowering.
How to save a dying Ruellia foetida
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing, or brown-spotted leaves. Leaf drop.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist but not soggy soil). Place in partial shade if sun is too strong. Provide humidity.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or lack of humidity stressing the plant.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and you act quickly.