This tropical South American genus of the potato family (Solanaceae) includes some 35 species of annuals, perennials, and shrubs. Most species are low spreading plants with dark green, soft, downy, rounded leaves, and large trumpet-shaped flowers that have 5 fused lobes and range in color from white, pink, and red to blue and purple, often with a variety of multicolored markings. Cultivated varieties occur in virtually every color but lack the soft fragrance of some of the species. The genus is closely allied to tobacco (Nicotiana), and the leaves having a similar narcotic effect. The genus name comes from petun, a Brazilian Indian name for tobacco.
CULTIVATION
Plant in full sun with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. While the plants need watering, the flowers are easily damaged when sprayed too heavily with water. Modern strains of the plant are more resistant to this, as well as wet-weather damage. Propagate from seed or from cuttings.
Top tip
Petunias will thrive if they are given a high-potassium fertilizer weekly during the growing season. If in a pot, add slow-release fertilizer to the potting mix.
CULTIVATION
Plant in full sun with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. While the plants need watering, the flowers are easily damaged when sprayed too heavily with water. Modern strains of the plant are more resistant to this, as well as wet-weather damage. Propagate from seed or from cuttings.
Top tip
Petunias will thrive if they are given a high-potassium fertilizer weekly during the growing season. If in a pot, add slow-release fertilizer to the potting mix.
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