The Rise of the Mexican Petunia

by Kendall Hathcock

Submitted : Fall 2015

Invasive species modify ecosystem development and dominate native species. Mexican petunia (ruellia simplex) was originally introduced as an ornamental plant. Due to its low maintenance, Mexican petunia rapidly invaded the southeastern region of the United States. Mexican petunia readily germinates under various conditions involving saturation levels and temperature intervals. 

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