White Petunia
petunia axillaris
Also known as: ["Evening-scented Petunia","Large White Petunia"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the family Solanaceae, known for its large, fragrant white flowers that bloom in the evening.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Petunia |
| Botanical Name: | Petunia axillaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with added perlite or sand
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering flushes or every 4–6 weeks during growing season
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure proper ventilation indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: 6.0–6.5 (slightly acidic)
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid waterlogging; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers cooler nights; sensitive to frost and extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F)
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 2–3 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadheading and selective trimming of overgrown stems
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves
Checklist
Check for dead or diseased stems; prune selectively; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter)
Method
Use fresh potting mix; trim rootbound roots; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot if roots are crowded or growth slows; typically every 1–2 years.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water gently; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid overhead watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter or cool weather to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, bud drop, stunted growth, or chlorosis.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to death in frost conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, and potential dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth; reduce in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPetunia axillaris is not considered toxic to cats. Ingestion of this plant is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPetunia axillaris is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of this plant is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPetunia axillaris is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Petunia axillaris require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Petunia axillaris?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 2-3 days during active growth.
Q: Are the flowers fragrant?
A: Yes, the flowers are highly fragrant, especially in the evening.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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