Ruellia makoyana image • Photo: Author Stan Shebs• GFDL
Monkey Plant
Ruellia makoyana
Ruellia makoyana is an evergreen perennial houseplant native to Brazil, prized for its ornamental velvety foliage and vibrant flowers. It features dark green to olive green leaves with striking silver or white veining and purple undersides, growing up to 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide. The plant produces showy pink to carmine-pink trumpet-shaped flowers from late summer through spring. Its trailing growth habit and textured foliage make it particularly attractive in hanging baskets or as a windowsill specimen.
Leaf Characteristics
Velvety-textured, oval-shaped leaves with dark green upper surfaces featuring silver veining and purple undersides
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Ruellia makoyana
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light or partial shade
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
When top inch of soil is dry (typically once a week)
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
65-85°F (18-29°C) during day, minimum 55°F (13°C) at night
Native Climate
Native to Brazil
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-drained, rich soil with added perlite
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Ruellia makoyana plants
Stem cuttings
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Brazil
moderate
60 cm (24 in) tall by 45 cm (18 in) wide
Perennial
Pet friendly
This plant has minimal air purifying properties.
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Late summer to spring
Flower Description
Trumpet-shaped pink to carmine-pink flowers with a flared opening, emerging from leaf axils on short stalks.
Fun Fact
Awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit for its ornamental qualities.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Ruellia makoyana
Fine webbing on leaves, yellow speckling
Yellowing leaves, wilting despite watering
Community Tips
Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Ruellia makoyana
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Humidity Lovers Plants Care Guide
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Flowering Plants Plants Care Guide
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