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Petunias are herbaceous perennials, usually grown as annuals, that have become one of our most popular garden plants. The petunias that we grow today comprise a large family of hybrids derived from many species including Petunia axillaris, P. violacea and P. inflata. Petunias are classified into two categories; grandiflora (large-flowered) and mulitflora (many-flowered). The grandiflora petunias have trailing stems and tend to spread. They also have the largest flowers that grow to 5 in (13 cm) in diameter. The multiflora petunias are bushier, more compact and produce smaller flowers that are about 2-3 in (5-7.6 cm) in diameter) but make up in quantity what they lack in size. The multifloras are also easier to grow and less bothered by pests. The basic petunia flower is funnel shape, but hybridizers have created many variations including singles and doubles with petals that have wavy or fringed margins. Many patterns are available in stripes, speckles and borders in an extensive color palette that includes purple, mauve, lavender, pink, red, white and yellow. Leaves and stems are sticky to the touch and have a distinctive odor.
All of the many members of the genus Petunia that contributed to the hundreds of hybrids are native to tropical and sub-tropical areas of South America. One species, P. violacea, has naturalized in parts of the U.S. As a boy in Kentucky, I encountered this plant on springtime walks to school where it grew in profusion along an old streetcar line. Petunia hybrids are now popular garden and container plants the world over.
Culture
Use petunias in beds and borders. The spreading grandifloras are best appreciated trailing over the sides of hanging baskets or containers. In Florida petunias are best grown during the cooler seasons when they are least likely to be affected by heat, humidity and fungus.
Features Update 2003: I planted a bunch of 'Wave' petunias, they have such great color I had to and besides they don't seem to stink as badly as I remember (but allergies might have something to do with that). I put in a few dozen purple, blue and white and they are quickly forming great colorful masses. Hmmm, I guess I like petunias now - at least one variety anyway... Jack Scheper 04/26/99; updated 05/20/03
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