Ruellia chartacea (Colorama)

Ruellia chartacea, Ruellia colorata, Colorama

Botanical names: Ruellia chartacea, Ruellia colorata

Common name: Colorama

Family: Acanthaceae

Origin: Brazil

USDA Plant Hardiness MapSmall plant 2-5 ftSemi-shadeShadeRegular waterRed, crimson, vinous flowersPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsSubtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

The most exclusive tropical Christmas flower!

Ruellia colorata, known as Colorama, is a rare and vibrant addition to any exotic container plant collection. Its brilliant scarlet bracts color up just in time for Christmas, staying bright carmine for several months. Native to Brazil, this small plant grows 2-4 feet tall, displaying vivid scarlet bracts and crimson flowers that add a touch of holiday cheer.

One of Colorama's most striking features is its photoperiodic response: the top leaves turn crimson red around Christmas due to changes in daylight length, much like the beloved Poinsettia. After winter, these leaves return to green, keeping the plant lively and versatile year-round. Photoperiodism, the process where plants respond to the length of day and night, triggers changes such as leaf coloration or flowering.

Its blooms are a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds, making it a favorite for wildlife enthusiasts. Colorama thrives in shady to semi-shady spots and requires regular watering to stay lush and healthy. It's ideal for USDA zones 9-11 but can also be grown in colder regions if protected from frost. For winter care in cooler climates, move it indoors or to a warm area to keep this stunning beauty happy and blooming.

When grown in pots, ensure good drainage, use rich organic soil, and place the plant in a bright location. Prune twice a year to maintain its compact, bushy shape, and fertilize with a flowering fertilizer once established.


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