Ruellia makoyana (Monkey flower)
Botanical names: Ruellia makoyana, Dipteracanthus makoyanus, Dipteracanthus devosianus
Common names: Monkey flower, Monkey Plant, Trailing Velvet Plant
Family: Acanthaceae
Origin: Brazil
Ruellia makoyana, commonly known as Monkey Plant, is a low-growing perennial native to Brazil. It is prized primarily for its striking foliage, which features velvety dark green leaves marked with bold silvery-white veins and rich purple undersides. Forming spreading clumps 12-24 inches tall, this tropical species is well suited to containers, shaded borders, and use as an ornamental groundcover in frost-free climates.
The tubular lavender to violet flowers are produced above the foliage over an extended season, although the beautifully patterned leaves remain the plant's main ornamental feature even when it is not in bloom. Unlike many ruellias grown for abundant flowering, Ruellia makoyana is cultivated chiefly as a foliage plant. It thrives in bright filtered light or partial shade and prefers fertile, well-drained soil that remains evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. Warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity encourage the most vigorous growth and the richest leaf coloration. Suitable for USDA Zones 10-11, it is widely grown as a container plant or houseplant in cooler climates, where its colorful foliage provides year-round interest.
Similar plants: Ruellia makoyana (Monkey flower)
- Ruellia affinis (Red Ruellia)
- Ruellia chartacea (Colorama)
- Ruellia devosiana (Brazilian Wild Petunia)
- Ruellia elegans (Red ruellia)
- Ruellia macrantha (Christmas Pride ruellia)
- Ruellia multisetosa (Columbian Petunia)
- Ruellia nudiflora (Violet Ruellia)
- Ruellia peninsularis (Desert Ruellia)
- Ruellia portellae (Ruellia)
- Ruellia rosea (Pink Ruellia)
Called the monkey plant or the trailing velvet leaves, it is a showy spreading groundcover for shaded areas. Ruellia makoyana has attractive leaves which are purple tinged and with pretty silver markings on the upper surface, and very deep purple underneath. It blooms mainly autumn and early winter, with lovely carmine-pink flared flowers. It is best in part to dappled shade. Fall and winter bloomer, it provides color when it is needed most. Trailing Velvet Plant starts to flower in late fall and continues until spring. The flowers rise above the foliage so they are easily seen. The leaves have pronounced silver veining and are accented by the deep green velvety tones. This plant is perfect for limited space on windowsills or hanging baskets.
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Megaflor - Bloom Nutrition Booster