Katie Pink

Plant Type: evergreen perennial groundcover
Plant Height: 10–12 inches
Spread: 12–18 inches
Flower Color: soft pink
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Katie Pink Dwarf Ruellia (Ruellia brittoniana ‘Katie Pink’): Compact, Long-Blooming Groundcover

Katie Pink is a dwarf form of the popular Mexican petunia (Ruellia brittoniana), prized for its compact size and abundant soft pink flowers. With its low, spreading growth and long bloom season, it’s a colorful, low-maintenance option for borders, containers, or groundcover in Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of Katie Pink Dwarf Ruellia

• Soft Pink Blooms: Trumpet-shaped flowers appear in abundance from spring through fall.
• Compact Growth: Forms a dense, rounded mound only 10–12 inches tall.
• Low Maintenance: Stays neat without pruning and resists pests and disease.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in hot climates once established, though blooms more with regular watering.

Growing and Care Tips

Katie Pink is easy to grow and performs reliably with little effort.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils; tolerates poor soils once established.
Water: Moderate watering; more blooms appear with consistent irrigation.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote flowering.
Pruning: Rarely needed; cut back lightly in winter to encourage fresh spring growth.

Landscaping Uses

• Borders & Edging: Perfect for lining walkways and flower beds.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a colorful carpet when planted in groups.
• Containers: Excellent in pots and mixed arrangements.
• Accent Plant: Adds consistent color to small spaces or pollinator gardens.

Summary

Katie Pink Dwarf Ruellia delivers nonstop color, compact growth, and easy care. Its long bloom season and heat tolerance make it a reliable choice for Arizona gardeners who want low-maintenance flowers in sunny or partially shaded areas.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Katie Pink Dwarf Ruellia

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for maximum bloom; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soils preferred.
Spacing: Plant 12–18 inches apart for groundcover effect.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—forms a naturally compact mound.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly at planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months of consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water weekly for best bloom production; tolerant of less frequent watering once mature.
• Winter: Water every 3–4 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1 emitter 6 inches from plant base.
Flow Rate: 0.5–1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One per plant; increase in sandy soils.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during peak heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Katie Pink Dwarf Ruellia:

• Soil Check: Keep soil lightly moist for consistent blooms, but allow the top inch to dry between waterings.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water may reduce flower production.
• Mulch: Apply gravel or bark mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.