Christmas Pride

(Ruellia macrantha)

Christmas Pride (Ruellia macrantha)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ruellia macrantha, commonly known as Christmas Pride, is an evergreen shrub native to the cerrado vegetation and tropical rainforests of Northern and Western Brazil. It typically grows to a height of 6 feet (1.8 meters) and a width of 2 feet (0.6 meters), featuring lance-shaped leaves and an upright growth habit. Christmas Pride is particularly noted for its large, trumpet-shaped pink flowers that bloom profusely in the spring and intermittently throughout the winter, adding a splash of color to the garden during these seasons.

In cultivation, Christmas Pride is valued for its showy flowers and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It is often used as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical gardens, thriving in full sun to partial shade. This shrub prefers medium amounts of water and well-drained soils with good fertility. While it is relatively low maintenance, it may require pruning to maintain a desired shape and size. It is not known for any significant disease or pest problems, but it can be sensitive to cold temperatures and may need protection in cooler climates.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Cerrado vegetation and tropical rainforests of Northern and Western Brazil

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Ruellia macrantha, Ruellia speciosa, Dipteracanthus macranthus, Ruellia magnifica, Dipteracanthus speciosus,

GBIF Accepted Name: Ruellia macrantha Mart. ex Nees