Petunia axillaris
large white petunia
This plant is relatively rare in cultivation, and is a large white flowering night-scented species of petunia native to temperate South America. It has been used as a parent in many petunia hybrid breeding programs. It has pure white highly-scented funnel shaped, trumpet flowers that can be 3 to 7cm across and flowers prolifically on a vigorous gently mounding plant.
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | White | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Trailing, Spreading branched
- Genus
Petunia can be annuals or perennials, with simple leaves and large, solitary, trumpet-shaped flowers in the upper leaf axils from late spring to autumn
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun, with shelter from drying winds. Plant out after frosts have passed
Propagation
Propagate by seed. Can be slow to germinate. Seeds need gentle warmth and must not be covered
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Sub-tropical
- Patio and container plants
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Bedding
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead regularly
Pests
Diseases
May be subsceptible to grey moulds, foot rot and a virus
Get involved
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