Petunia axillaris aka Garden Petunia
Taxonomy ID: 10510
Petunia axillaris, also known as the large white petunia, wild white petunia, or white moon petunia, is an annual herbaceous plant in the Solanaceae family. This unique species is native to temperate South America and is relatively rare in cultivation. It has been used extensively in petunia hybrid breeding programs due to its large white flowers, which are the only white ones found in the Petunia genus. These highly-scented trumpet-shaped flowers can range from 3 to 7 cm in length. Despite its rarity, the plant is a vigorous grower, producing abundant blooms on a gently mounding structure.
The commonly-grown garden petunia is actually a hybrid of Petunia axillaris and Petunia integrifolia. Petunias, in general, are incredibly popular garden flowers, suitable for both borders and containers. They are known for their prolific blooming, with most varieties continuing to flower throughout the summer, except in extreme heat. While some forms may require deadheading, they are generally low-maintenance plants. Petunias come in a wide range of colors, with the exception of true blue, and can be grown in mounding borders or trailing down containers. Their foliage is branching, hairy, and somewhat sticky.
Common names
Garden Petunia, Large White Petunia, White Moon PetuniaMore information about Garden Petunia
How difficult is it to take care of Garden Petunia
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Garden Petunia due to its easy-going nature.
What is the region of origin of Garden Petunia
Garden Petunia’s native range is South America.
What are the water needs for Garden Petunia
Garden Petunia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Garden Petunia
Garden Petunia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Garden Petunia
Garden Petunia thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your White Moon Petunia.
What's the right humidity for Garden Petunia
No additional humidity is required for the Garden Petunia. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.
How to fertilize Garden Petunia
Repotting the Garden Petunia is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Garden Petunia toxic to humans/pets?
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
More info:
Wikipedia
