|
Petunias are relatives of the tobaccos (Nicotiana): their leaves
have a similar narcotic effect on humans.There are around 35 species
in the genus, occurring in warmer parts of South America, including
annuals, biennials and shrubby perennials.
They have dark green, rather hairy, smooth-edged leaves and
trumpet-shaped flowers in white, purple, red, blue, pink or mixed
hues.
Cultivation: The garden petunias always grown as annuals and are
popular worldwide as bedding plants and for window boxes, hanging
baskets and planters.
Fairly fast growing, they like well-drained, fertile soil and a
sunny location,although they do need shelter from wind. Flowers of
some of the larger Grandiflora hybrids are damaged by rain but
others, mainly the Multiflora hybrids, are more resistant. Deadhead
regularly and pinch back hard to encourage branching. Cucumber
mosaic and tomato spotted wilt may attack them.
|
