Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
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Saturday - March 05, 2016
From: Corpus Christi, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Herbs/Forbs
Title: Getting rid of Mexican Petunia in Chorpus Christi, TX
Answered by: Jimmy Mills
QUESTION:
What is the best way to get rid of unwanted Mexican Petunia that keeps spreading to unwanted areas of my flower beds?ANSWER:
Mexican Petunia is known as Ruellia tweediana or Ruellia simplex or Ruellia brittonia, and is commonly used as an ornamental. Some gardeners learn too late that it is a very invasive plant.
This link to the University of Florida gives a comprehensive look at the taxonomy, as well as its biology, and measures to control its growth.
HGTV offers some advice about dealing with this plant.
This previously answered Smarty Plants question also has suggestions for solving your problem.
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