Rabbit Ears Shrub

The most often used common name for Ruttya fruticosa is of course Rabbit Ears. When you see a picture of the flowers this becomes obvious. However, Jammy Mouth and Gummy Mouth have been used to a lesser extent due to the heavy dark markings on the lip of the flowers that resembles jam. This low sprawling shrub is native to parts of Africa, in particular, Somalia and Tanzania. In S. Florida, this shrub blooms in winter and early spring. It is an excellent nectar source for butterflies and hummingbirds. It is best grown in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Richard Lyons Nursery currently has a yellow flowering variety as well as a dark orange variety in stock.