Ruellia makoyana

Monkey Plant (Ruellia makoyana) is a houseplant in the Acanthaceae family, native to Brazil Southeast. It is a medium to bright-light species that thrives between 1000 and 3500 lux. Optimal indoor care calls for watering roughly every 6 days, temperatures of 16–28°C, and about 65% humidity. According to ASPCA data, it is non-toxic and considered pet-safe for cats and dogs. It is also known as Monkey-plant.

ASPCA Pet Toxicity Determination

Toxic to Dogs? NO (Safe)

Toxic to Cats? NO (Safe)

Clinical Symptoms:

Toxicity not verified against ASPCA — treat as unknown.

Quantitative Care Thresholds

Light Level Profile Medium to Bright

Minimum Light Requirement 1000 Lux

Maximum Light Tolerance 3500 Lux

Watering Frequency Every 6 Days

Temperature Envelope 16°C – 28°C

Ideal Ambient Humidity 65% RH

Taxonomic & Field Verification

GBIF Usage Key 8029019

Native Biogeographical Range Brazil Southeast; Zimbabwe [I]; New Caledonia [I]; SE-Brazil

🔬 Verify on GBIF Species Portal