This rare perennial sub-shrub has multiple greyish branched woody stems that form rounded sprawling open habit. It has glossy dark green elliptical pointed leaves and the red tube-shaped flowers appear in a leafy spike throughout the year.

Hardiness zones 9 to 12

Ruellia colorataIs naturally found in the Amazon region of Brazil and Ecuador to Columbia in South America growing along woodland margins and in the understory of rainforest.

It prefers a semi-shaded to sunny wind protected humid position and grows in well drained humus rich, reliably moist sandy to clay loam that is tending acidic and is frost and drought tender.

Lobster Claw is grown for its long-lasting flowers and attractive foliage. It is planted in the understory of rainforest settings or used along creek embankments for colour. It is also grown in pots and tubs and in cold climates it is used as a specimen in a conservatory or glasshouse. It is suitable for coastal and inland regions and establishes in 3-4 years and is moderately long lived.

This perennial shrub is planted along garden borders or used on the shady side of buildings in tropical regions. It tends to become leggy requiring regular tip pruning to maintain a bushy habit. ID 3768

Ruellia (roo-EL-ee-uh) colorata (kol-oh-RAY-tuh)

Acanthaceae(ah-kanth-AY-see-ee)
Acanthus Family