Carolina Wild Petunia, Ruellia caroliniensis, is the perfect native flower to replace the invasive Mexican petunia. This long-lived perennial reaches 1 to 2 1/2 ft tall and is a wonderful ground cover. The gorgeous lavender flowers last only a day but this wild petunia blooms from early spring through fall in sun or shade.
Look for Carolina wild petunia seeds at Native nurseries and FNPS plant sales. Plants that are a few years old can be propagated by division. Plant Carolina Wild petunias in your garden to attract pollinators. White Peacock and Common Buckeye butterfflies use the plant as a larval host.