Kendall County (IL) Forest Preserve District

 Smooth Wild Petunia (Smooth Ruellia)
Ruellia strepens   [C-value 8]
Acanthus family (Acanthaceae)
Blooms July - mid-September

The lovely native Smooth Wild Petunia is uncommon in our area, but is sometimes found in slightly moist open woodlands, woodland edges or areas along woodland paths. It prefers light shade or partial sun and a loamy or rocky soil. This perennial is 1–3' tall with a smooth stem branching occasionally. The opposite leaves are up to 5" long and 3" across, oval-shaped and untoothed on short ¼–½" long petioles. Each funnel-shaped, lavender-blue or pale violet flower on a short stalk is about 2" long and 1½" across with 5 flaring petals.. 

Smooth Wild Petunia at  Baker Woods Forest Preserve July 9, 2013

Smooth Wild Petunia at  Baker Woods Forest Preserve July 9, 2013

Smooth Wild Petunia at  Baker Woods Forest Preserve September 3, 2013

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