| Botanical Name | Ruellia brittoniana 'Katie' |
| Description | 'Katie' is a low-growing, clump-forming perennial that is virtually indestructible in the Houston metro area. It is highly prized for its ability to flourish in the most challenging conditions, including the heavy, poorly drained clay soils often found in Willis and Houston. Unlike the standard species, this dwarf variety remains tidy and does not become invasive, making it an excellent choice for borders, groundcover, or filling in gaps where other plants struggle with the Texas heat. |
| Exposure | Full Sun to Partial Shade (Blooms best in Full Sun) |
| Height x Width | 10-12 inches Tall x 12-18 inches Wide |
| Water | Low to High; extremely versatile, tolerating both drought and periodic flooding. |
| Zones | 8-11 |
| Fertilization | Minimal; a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient. |
| Pruning | Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms; cut back to the ground in late winter after a hard freeze to refresh foliage. |
| Deer Resistance | Yes |
| Botanical Name | Ruellia brittoniana 'Katie' |
| Description | 'Katie' is a low-growing, clump-forming perennial that is virtually indestructible in the Houston metro area. It is highly prized for its ability to flourish in the most challenging conditions, including the heavy, poorly drained clay soils often found in Willis and Houston. Unlike the standard species, this dwarf variety remains tidy and does not become invasive, making it an excellent choice for borders, groundcover, or filling in gaps where other plants struggle with the Texas heat. |
| Exposure | Full Sun to Partial Shade (Blooms best in Full Sun) |
| Height x Width | 10-12 inches Tall x 12-18 inches Wide |
| Water | Low to High; extremely versatile, tolerating both drought and periodic flooding. |
| Zones | 8-11 |
| Fertilization | Minimal; a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient. |
| Pruning | Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms; cut back to the ground in late winter after a hard freeze to refresh foliage. |
| Deer Resistance | Yes |