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 for Christmas and stay bright carmine for several months. Native to Brazil, this small plant grows 2-4 feet tall, showcasing brilliant scarlet bracts and crimson flowers that stay bright for months, adding a festive 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. 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 perfect for USDA zones 9-11 but can also be grown in colder regions if protected from frost. For winter care, move it indoors or to a warm area to keep it 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 a compact, bushy shape, and fertilize with a flowering fertilizer once established.