Large white petunia (Petunia axillaris) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Large white petunia likes regular watering. During hot spells, those planted in containers require more frequent watering than plants in beds and borders. The best time to water is when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Water thoroughly each time and avoid wetting the leaves.

Fertilization

Large white petunia should be regularly fertilized during the growing season. Use a liquid fertilizer, specifically formulated for flowering plants, and apply it every 2-3 weeks to garden plants and every 2 weeks to container plants. In spring, you can also use a slow-release balanced fertilizer that will release nutrients over an extended period of time.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

9 to 11

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Large white petunia

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

9 to 11

Planting Time

Early spring

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Questions About Large white petunia

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Large white petunia?

To water Large white petunia, you can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a watering can, or just about any other common watering tool. Generally, Large white petunia is not too picky about how they receive their water, as they can live off of rainwater, tap water, or filtered water. Often, you should try not to water this plant from overhead, as doing so can damage the leaves and flowers and may lead to disease as well. At times, the best method for watering this plant is to set up a drip irrigation system. These systems work well for Large white petunia as they apply water evenly and directly to the soil. For one Large white petunia that grows in a container, you can use a similar watering approach while changing the tools you use. To water a container-grown Large white petunia, use a cup, watering can, or your tap to apply water directly to the soil.

What should I do if I water my Large white petunia too much or too little?

The remedy for underwatering Large white petunia is somewhat obvious. When you notice that your plant lacks moisture, simply begin watering it on a more regular basis. The issue of overwatering can be a much more dire situation, especially if you fail to notice it early. When your Large white petunia is overwatered, it may contract diseases that lead to its decline and death. The best way to prevent this outcome is to choose a proper growing location, one that receives plenty of sunlight to help dry the soil and has good enough drainage to allow excess water to drain rather than pooling and causing waterlogged soils. If you overwater your Large white petunia that lives in a pot, you may need to consider changing it to a new pot. Your previous container may not have contained soil with good drainage or may not have had sufficient drainage holes. As you repot your overwatered Large white petunia, make sure to add loose soils and to use a pot that drains efficiently.

How often should I water my Large white petunia?

Large white petunia needs water regularly throughout the growing season. Beginning in spring, you should plan to water this plant about once per week. As the season presses on and grows warmer, you may need to increase your watering rate to about two to three times per week. Exceeding at this rate can be detrimental to your Large white petunia. With that said, you should also ensure that the soil in which your Large white petunia grows remains relatively moist but not wet, regardless of how often you must water to make that the case. Watering Large white petunia that lives in a pot is a bit different. Generally, you'll need to increase your watering frequency, as the soil in a pot can heat up and dry out a bit faster than ground soil. As such, you should plan to water a container-grown Large white petunia a few times per week in most cases, versus just once per week for an in-ground plant.

How much water does my Large white petunia need?

There are a few different ways you can go about determining how much water to give to your Large white petunia. Some gardeners choose to pick their water volume based on feeling the soil for moisture. That method suggests that you should water until you feel that the first six inches of soil have become moist. Alternatively, you can use a set measurement to determine how much to water your Large white petunia. Typically, you should give your Large white petunia about two gallons of water per week, depending on how hot it is and how quickly the soil becomes dry. However, following strict guidelines like that can lead to overwatering if your plant requires less than two gallons per week for whatever reason. When growing Large white petunia in a container, you will need to use a different method to determine how much water to supply. Typically, you should give enough water to moisten all of the layers of soil that have become dry. To test if that is the case, you can simply stick your finger in the soil to feel for moisture. You can also water the soil until you notice a slight trickle of excess water exiting the drainage holes of your pot.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Large white petunia enough?

It can be somewhat difficult to avoid overwatering your Large white petunia. On the one hand, these plants have relatively deep roots that require you to moisten the soil weekly. On the other hand, Large white petunia are plants that are incredibly susceptible to root rot. Along with root rot, your Large white petunia may also experience browning as a result of overwatering. Underwatering is far less likely for your Large white petunia as these plants can survive for a while in the absence of supplemental watering. However, if you go too long without giving this plant water, it will likely begin to wilt. You may also notice dry leaves.

How should I water my Large white petunia through the seasons?

You can expect your Large white petunia’s water needs to increase as the season moves on. During spring, you should water about once per week. Then, as the summer heat arrives, you will likely need to give a bit more water to your Large white petunia, at times increasing to about three times per week. This is especially true of Large white petunia that grow in containers, as the soil in a container is far more likely to dry out faster than ground soil when the weather is warm. In autumn, while your Large white petunia is still in bloom, it may need a bit less water as the temperature has likely declined, and the sun is no longer as strong as it was in summer.

How should I water my Large white petunia at different growth stages?

Large white petunia will move through several different growth stages throughout the year, some of which may require more water than others. For example, you will probably start your Large white petunia as a seed. While the seed germinates, you should plant to give more water than your Large white petunia will need later in life, watering often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture. After a few weeks, your Large white petunia will grow above the soil and may need slightly less water than at the seedling phase. Then, once this plant is mature, you can begin to use the regular watering frequency of about once per week. As flower development takes place, you may need to give slightly more water to aid the process.

What's the difference between watering Large white petunia indoors and outdoors?

There are several reasons why most Large white petunia grow outdoors rather than indoors. The first is that these plants typically grow to tall. The second reason is that Large white petunia needs more daily sunlight than most indoor growing locations can provide. If you are able to provide a suitable indoor growing location, you may find that you need to give your Large white petunia water a bit more often than you would in an outdoor growing location. Part of the reason for this is that indoor growing locations tend to be a lot drier than outdoor ones due to HVAC units. The other reason for this is that soil in containers can dry out relatively quickly as well compared to soil in the ground.

Is pruning necessary for my Large white petunia?

Large white petunia is a kind of annual plant so it doesn't need much pruning. You only need to cut off and clean the diseased, yellow or dropped leaves and stems during its growing period. This will help your Large white petunia to stay away from pathogens infection.

How do I prune my Large white petunia?

During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off. If the whole piece of leave is discolored or infected, you will need to cut it off completely. In other situations, you will only need to cut off the discolored or infected part on certain leaves. Large white petunia above the ground will die and dry up in the winter, and the dead plants need to be cleaned up.

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Large white petunia?

Large white petunia leaves are delicate, so take care not to score or bruise them. Unless the leaves are withered or heavily discolored, do not prune the leaves from the lowermost branches unless they’re damaged. They typically grow the largest, so they supply the plant with critical energy to keep it growing right. Please prevent the wounds from water after pruning until they are fully recovered. Remember always sterilize the tools before pruning. When the pruning is finished, please throw all the waste leaves and stems into the trashbins to avoid diseases and bugs.

Are there any tips for pruning my Large white petunia?

Sterilize all the tools before pruning; unclean tools will pass pathogens to the plant through wounds;
Prune on sunny days because the new cuts will be infected by pathogens if they're distained by rain or water.
Throw all the waste leaves and stems into trashbins, they will easily rot and attract diseases and bugs

When should/shouldn't I prune my Large white petunia?

Expect to prune your Large white petunia every week if it’s growing well or every two weeks if it grows slowly. It is always good to prune it on sunny days because if you prune it on rainy days, the rainwater will distain the cuts and cause the whole plant to be infected.

What should I look for when pruning my Large white petunia in different seasons?

Because Large white petunia is an annual plant, the pruning should take place basically during the seasons that the plant grows rapidly. During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off.

How much sunlight should Large white petunia get per day to grow healthily?

You must expose the plants to at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. They prefer more exposure to the morning light, especially in the summer. The Large white petunia needs full sun and more sunlight that it can get. The more light these species get, the more they can manufacture food, produce beautiful blooms, and survive.

What type of sunlight does Large white petunia need?

The Large white petunia grows best under full sunlight. It's best not to crowd them together so they can get exposure to the sun evenly. The leaves shouldn't be starved with sunlight. If planted in pots, try to expose the herbaceous flowers in windows with direct sun and ensure they receive full sunlight regardless of the months.

They don't tend to do well in partial or filtered light as this will not produce strong stems and healthy flowers. It's best if the Large white petunia is always exposed to the sun.

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect Large white petunia from sun and heat damage?

When the temperature rises above 90℉(32℃), the Large white petunia can get damaged by extreme temperatures, especially if they are exposed to many hours of sun. It's always ideal for providing some shade from the light in the afternoon in the summer. It's always important to keep in mind that the sunlight in the summer is stronger than the one in the winter. Sunlight exposure is also 50% longer in the summer than in the winter.

If the Large white petunia is too stressed with sunlight, you might want to keep them fully hydrated. Water them when the top of the soil is about 2 inches dry, and move the plants indoors if it's too hot outside. This is the case if they are planted in containers.

It can be normal for the plant leaves to wilt during the day. Generally, they can recover at night. However, when you notice that the Large white petunia is still drooping, this means that the plant is losing water fast, and you need to water them.

Should I protect Large white petunia from sun exposure?

The Large white petunia does not need any protection from the sun. In fact, they love the sun, and some species are heliotropic. Plant them in south-facing gardens whenever possible so they can be exposed from morning to afternoon. While the sun can benefit them, some may experience a sunburn. You might offer protection from the afternoon and midday sun through a shade of a tree or a wall.

Growing the Large white petunia in shady areas is impossible because the larger flowers would require a lot of energy to grow and produce. Always provide the lighting conditions and set them in an area with full sun for best results.

What will happen if Large white petunia gets inadequate sunlight?

When the Large white petunia does not get adequate sunlight, or they are not placed in full sun locations, it's worth noting that the photosynthetic process will slow down. A lack of sunlight will cause the stems to become more leggy since they become thin and long since they tend to seek too much sunlight. They will not bloom and produce seeds in the shade.

Inadequate sunlight will also mean that the older leaves can die, the color of the new ones is lighter than the old foliage, and the new growth is smaller than the last ones.

The Large white petunia indeed loves the sun so much. However, they can wilt when exposed to excessive heat and ultraviolet light during the extreme summer months, so be careful. You might want to cover them with a net that has a green shade, especially in the summer, to prevent the leaves and the flowers from scorching. When they are indoors, reduce the heat with the help of a fan.

Does Large white petunia need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

When the Large white petunia is growing, they need more light than their mature counterparts. The younger ones should receive adequate light, but they might not be prepared for sudden full sunlight, especially if they are grown in a nursery. They can be more sensitive to the summer sun, so the lighting should be gradual and slow.

How much light does Large white petunia need for photosynthesis?

During summer or late spring, the Large white petunia needs 6 to 8 hours of direct light every single day. This is whether they are planted outdoors. If the Large white petunia is planted in pots or you're growing them in the winter, they need direct fluorescent lights that help them grow better. Make sure to place them in an indoor area where they are facing south or east so they can have enough sunlight for photosynthesis.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Large white petunia?

When transplanting the plants, they should not be exposed to sudden sunlight. Give the Large white petunia to grow and mature before transplanting outside. Some species of herbaceous plants can grow taller and might cast a shade on other young plants. Allow between 80 to 100 days of growing season before planting another batch to ensure that every plant receives more than enough sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.

Make sure that the Large white petunia receives the best light possible, especially if it's planted in a nursery. These are sun-loving plants, but too much sunlight with a very hot temperature is also detrimental to their growth. Indoor lights should be replaced with natural sunlight as much as possible since these species crave this every day.

What is the optimal temperature for Large white petunia?

For this tropical plant to thrive, you’ll want to keep them between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃). Each species can handle temperatures outside of this range, but keeping it within several degrees of these limits will ensure they grow to their maximum potential.

As for its extreme temperature limits, any environment below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) will begin to hinder its growth and cause various aberrations to its leaves and stems. This is especially true with low temperatures; even a light frost can cause your tropical plants to perish. Cellular death can begin to happen at a rapid pace, with some species dying in as little as 12 to 24 hours.

Does Large white petunia require different temperatures for different growing phases?

While Large white petunia doesn’t require any changes in temperature to enter different growing phases, it is important to stay consistent. Wild temperature fluctuations can slow down its growth regardless of its current phase, so it's always better to keep them in a controlled environment. That optimal temperature range of 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃) is vital to maintain, especially staying above the lower limit. Going above 90℉(32℃) isn’t ideal, but as tropical plant it won’t suffer too much. On the other hand, going below 50℉ (10℃) (and especially 40℉/5℃) will begin to directly damage this heat-loving plant species.

Does Large white petunia need different temperatures for different seasons?

Large white petunia does not need different temperatures for different growing seasons. The most important step in seasonal care is to keep the environment within the optimal temperature range. That's why it's always best to keep this plant indoors. That way, you can control the temperature no matter what the climate is like outside.

Light is also important for tropical species, with all of these plants preferring a partial side level of sun exposure. This means any light they receive needs to be dappled or filtered, with bright but indirect light being the best option when growing your plants indoors. Too much direct sunlight can negatively affect your plant’s leaves, reducing its growth potential.

What are the temperature guidelines to keep your Large white petunia healthy?

Tip #1: Don’t Leave Your Plant Near Windows in Colder Months

If you want to make sure your plant isn’t exposed to colder temperatures, you may want to keep them away from windows. In colder months like late fall and winter, even the smallest draft can leak cold air into your home through cracks in your windows. While this air usually dissipates and warms up as it travels throughout your home, any plants placed in close proximity to the window will be affected. Move your tropical plants into an area where they will still get bright but indirect light, while making sure they won’t be affected by potential drafts.

Tip #2: If You Find Dry Patches, Your Plant May Be Getting Too Much Sunlight or Heat

You may notice the leaves become white or even scorched on a sunny day. These discolorations and unusual markings usually indicate that a plant is getting too much heat or sunlight, and it may be dehydrated. Excess light and heat will dry out the soil, stopping plants from getting the moisture they need to support their cellular structure. It also slows down or stops the process of photosynthesis, further hindering growth. If ignored for too long, these dry spots can spread and eventually result in the death of your plants.

Tip #3: Avoid Frost at All Costs

Colder temperatures and frost can damage your plants by causing ice crystals or disrupt normal physiological activity. This makes it nearly impossible for water to move freely throughout plant tissue, creating a deficit of moisture in their stems and leaves. You can tell a plant has been damaged by frost if it begins to suffer from hydrosis (it will appear as though it's soaked with water.) If the problem persists, your plants may begin shriveling and turning a dark brown or black hue. After that, the plant will almost certainly die.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Large white petunia?

The best way to maintain the right temperature range for Large white petunia is by keeping an eye on both the climate and humidity. You’ll want to try to keep each species in a room where you have access to climate control, keeping the heat in the temperature range best mimics its natural habitat. The humidity levels will also have a direct effect on temperature, so it's important to monitor these as well. You can artificially raise the humidity of your growing space by using a humidifier or lightly misting the leaves with water.

If you intend to grow this species outside, you may find it difficult to maintain the right balance of temperature and humidity. If temperatures begin to drop or the air becomes too dry, your best option is to find room within your home and move your plant inside. An indoor growing space will allow you to control the climate more closely, helping your plant reach its full potential.

Why do I need to fertilize my Large white petunia?

Plants need nutrients to survive; most gardeners, regardless of experience, are well aware of this factor. However, without food, Large white petunia will die out soon after the first pollination. Therefore, providing the right type of nutrients in the right amounts is the best way to keep Large white petunia going throughout the blooming season and producing large, beautiful flowers.

Fertilizer also helps Large white petunia build a large, healthy root system. This plant needs all the help it can get since its root system is very thin and easily damaged. Fertilizing at planting helps Large white petunia build a solid root structure that not only provides stability to the plant, but also sets the stage for a sensational flowering performance. When timed correctly, fertilization can greatly extend Large white petunia's flowering period.

When is the best time to fertilize my Large white petunia?

Large white petunia puts on tremendous growth early in the growing season, once the danger of the last frost has passed. It’s during this time that Large white petunia should be fertilized; more specifically, during planting. The idea is to apply when the plant is first planted in the ground or in planters; however you choose to plant it. This will be the only dose of fertilizer until later in the year, when blooms are in full force.

Once the season is in full swing and Large white petunia has opened most of its blooms at full size, it’s time to start fertilizing again. Around the time when blooms are at peak output, begin fertilizing again once every three to four weeks, as weather permits. Then, after Large white petunia starts to put out fewer new blooms, stop fertilizing; there’s no need to fertilize when the plant can’t produce any more blooms.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Large white petunia?

While regular fertilizing is important for Large white petunia, it absolutely can be applied at the wrong time. Some situations call for holding back the fertilizer once in a while. These are usually climate related, but they also include a variety of controllable factors. Essentially, when something is wrong with the plant, the soil, or the climate, wait it out until things have been smoothed over and the plant has recovered.

An example of when not to fertilize is if there are severe or unexpected changes in the weather. If a cold nap suddenly comes in the middle of summer, wait until it’s warm again to start fertilizing. The same stands for if the soil becomes too dry or too packed to absorb anything. At this point, fertilizer will be going straight to the roots, rather than being diffused by soil before it reaches them. As you can imagine, the roots of Large white petunia aren’t very fond of that.

When temperatures soar during the hottest parts of the day into the 90-degree fahrenheit range, don’t apply fertilizer. Since fertilizer can be broken down at various speeds depending on temperature, it’s especially important not to allow hot temperatures to break it down too quickly. Pests or diseases should also be treated and cleared up before re-fertilizing.

What type of fertilizer does my Large white petunia need?

Most types of Large white petunia need the same general balance of nutrients from fertilizer. These should come in the form of a fertilizer that’s formulated specifically for high-yield blooming plants. A fertilizer with a higher level of phosphorus is the best option. This type of fertilizer has a higher P number in its NPK number, for example 10-30-10.

Several fertilizer brands sell a fertilizer that’s perfect for blooming plants like Large white petunia, which are an easy and fuss-free way to provide the right nutrients. If you do choose to use a pre-mixed fertilizer, follow the directions on the package to prevent Large white petunia from getting too much or too little fertilizer, both of which can cause the plant to grow poorly or even wilt entirely.

How do I fertilize my Large white petunia?

Depending on the type of fertilizer you have, specific fertilizing instructions may vary. However, there are a few general tips for applying most types of fertilizer to Large white petunia. The first fertilizer application, which should be when you first plant Large white petunia, will likely consist of mixing the recommended amount of fertilizer into the soil before planting and watering in the Large white petunia.

Subsequent fertilizing may look a little different. For pellet fertilizers, simply mix the pellets into the top inch of soil around the outer edge of the plant, where the roots are. Water them in very well at first, then water regularly after that. Other fertilizers may be mixed into a watering can and applied just like a regular watering. Follow any instructions on fertilizer packaging for consistency, but if you’d rather keep things on a regular schedule, shoot for every three to four weeks.

What happens if I fertilize my Large white petunia too much?

Over-fertilizing is a very easy mistake to make for first-time gardeners, or even for experienced gardeners trying out a new product. Fortunately, Large white petunia makes this issue known very well by displaying several signs of distress. You may notice that its leaves are yellowing quickly, the foliage may wilt, or new blooms may be under-developed. These are all clear signs of too much food.

When you fertilize Large white petunia too frequently, you create uninhabitable soil conditions. Soil may become too hot, which is a term used to describe when soil is too saturated with minerals, nutrients, or compost, and ends up burning the roots of anything planted in it. It’s a good idea to flush out the soil well once a month or so, just by watering twice as much as normal with good drainage.

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More About How-Tos

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Feng shui direction

West

The large white petunia is typically regarded with favourability in Feng Shui practices due to its bright color, signifying vitality and optimism. Its compatibility with the West-facing direction is proposed due to the association with the Metal element that governs this area. However, adherents may interpret compatibility uniquely and thus discretion is advised.

Water

Twice per week

Large white petunia originates from regions with seasonal climates, preferring evenly moist soil. Ensure to water only when necessary to prevent overwatering, and always check soil moisture beforehand.

Lighting

Full sun

The large white petunia has a strong affinity for ample solar exposure, encouraging robust growth. As native to sun-drenched landscapes, it thrives amidst sun-soaked conditions, but can handle brief moments in the shade, ensuring continued vitality. Excessive shade will lead to less vigorous growth while overexposure may cause leaf scorch.

Temperature

10 to 35 ℃

Large white petunia prefers a warm to hot climate with a temperature range of 68 to 100 ℉ (20 to 38 ℃). Its native growth environment is warm and tropical. In colder seasons, it is recommended to place the plant in a sunny area protected from cold winds.

Transplant

1 foot

The perfect time to transplant large white petunia is during mid to late spring, when the weather is warmer and stable. Make sure to choose a location with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. A friendly tip: Gently loosen the roots prior to transplanting for optimal growth.

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Large white petunia based on 10 million real cases

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: Check the soil or potting medium. Coarse textures can allow water to drain too rapidly, preventing the plant from taking up enough. If the soil and roots seem very dry, add sphagnum moss or other mediums that hold water. Water according to recommendations for each plant's species. Low humidity can be corrected by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Keeping it near other plants helps, too. Keep the environment consistent in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. Keep it away from vents, heaters, and air conditioners, and avoid moving it to locations where it will experience a temperature shock. Hot, dry heat, and cold drafts are problematic for many plants. Especially if the plant is outside, it could be experiencing heat or light stress. Try moving it to a shadier location.

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Solutions: There are several easy ways to remedy the nutrient deficiencies in soils. Use a water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizers will include most or all of the macro and micro-nutrients the plants need to thrive. Adding some fertilizer to the soil will make those nutrients available and can combat deficiencies. Regularly apply organic fertilizer pellets. Organic fertilizers such as animal manures and bonemeal can supply plants with all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Apply compost. Though not as finely tuned as artificial fertilizer, compost can nevertheless be rich in important nutrients and should be applied to the soil regularly. Apply nutrients via foliar application. In addition to supplementing the soil with nutrients, foliar fertilizer can be applied directly to the plant's leaves. Nutrients offered via foliar application are often taken up even quicker than those put in the soil, so the foliar application can be great for swiftly addressing specific deficiencies.

Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: The easiest (and most obvious) way to address underwatering is to fully hydrate the plant. However, this must be done carefully. A common mistake that many gardeners make is to douse their underwatered plants with water. This can overwhelm the roots of the plant and shock its system, something that can be even more damaging than the lack of water to begin with. Instead, water thoroughly and slowly, taking breaks to let the water slowly saturate through the soil to get to the roots. Use room temperature water, as cold water might be too much of a shock. In the future, shorten the time between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil around each plant daily. If it’s dry to at least two inches down, it’s time to water. If a container plant is repeatedly drying out very quickly, repotting into a slower-draining container might be a good idea, too.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Highlands

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Yellow

Pink

Purple

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Large white petunia

Petunia axillaris can be regarded as the earliest ancestor of the petunia genus while the current hybrids basically developed from this particular species. The most amazing thing about this plant is that it has huge white flowers which is also why it is called the large white petunia.

White moon petunia

Many people choose to plant it along a courtyard wall. When the evening approaches, the moonlight shines on the white flowers highlighting its elegance and grace. What's magical about it is that its flowers emanate a sweet vanilla scent at night, adding a delicate atmosphere to the surroundings. Therefore, people decided to give it a tender name, the white moon petunia.

Symbolism

Innocence, truth, trust, resentment

Usages

Garden Use

The large white petunia is one of the most common flowers grown in pots and other containers. It loves to be crowded, so planting in bunches or mixed together with other annuals will help them grow splendidly. The large white petunia is prized for its waterfall of large, fast-growing flowers and ease of care, which is what makes it so great in containers, courtyard gardens and cottage gardens. Calibrachoa, sweet potato vine, and lobelia make great companions.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Petunias

Species

Large white petunia

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The princess flower is native to Brazil and grows best in sunny areas. It has a wide reach when growing, and can be trained to "climb" up trellises or other upright structures. Its leaves are hairy to the touch.

Blackboard tree (Alstonia scholaris) is a perennial evergreen tree that can grow to 40 m tall. It is a tropical tree with fragrant clusters of showy white flowers that bloom in fall. The perfume-like scent of the blossoms is more obvious during the evenings. Most often planted as a street tree. Another common name for this tree is Devil’s tree.

Summer, autumn

Blackboard tree

The asian virginsbower is one species of garden clematis that has generated some incredible beautiful varieties. It is a deciduous vine that produces creamy white to purple flowers according to varieties and blooms in early summer on shoots that developed from the previous year's growth.

Spring, Summer

Asian virginsbower

Summer

Plants of the genus Clematis are often planted in the garden and can also be grown as potted plants. There are a few tips needed to care for them. Most common asian virginsbower are vines and can be used to create flowering walls or decorative arches, as well as being planted alongside trees, shrubs, etc.

Common jasmine

Common jasmine (Jasminum officinale) is a deciduous plant species that flowers in summer. Common jasmine flowers have a strong fragrance. This species is native to the Caucasus, northern Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Himalayas.

Spring, summer

Shrubs and vines in the genus Jasminum are famous for their attractive, pale, star-shaped blooms of flowers, distinctive fragrance, and oil. Despite their delicate appearance, they are not difficult to maintain. They tolerate different temperature ranges, but prefer slightly drier soils in combination with a warm, humid environment. However, given the large number of different varieties, it is important to tailor conditions to the variety you choose.

Peace lily

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum cochlearispathum) is a plant species that is native to southern Mexico. Peace lily is commonly cultivated as an ornamental houseplant. This species should not be grown in direct sunlight.

Spring, summer

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Summer

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Most Common Herb

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Most Common Forb

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Sand, Loam, Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

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Add to My Garden

Large white petunia

Petunia axillaris

Also known as: White moon petunia

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for Large white petunia

Water

Fertilization

Soil

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

9 to 11

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Questions About Large white petunia

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Large white petunia?

What should I do if I water my Large white petunia too much or too little?

How often should I water my Large white petunia?

How much water does my Large white petunia need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Large white petunia enough?

How should I water my Large white petunia through the seasons?

How should I water my Large white petunia at different growth stages?

What's the difference between watering Large white petunia indoors and outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Large white petunia?

How do I prune my Large white petunia?

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Large white petunia?

Are there any tips for pruning my Large white petunia?

When should/shouldn't I prune my Large white petunia?

What should I look for when pruning my Large white petunia in different seasons?

How much sunlight should Large white petunia get per day to grow healthily?

What type of sunlight does Large white petunia need?

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect Large white petunia from sun and heat damage?

Should I protect Large white petunia from sun exposure?

What will happen if Large white petunia gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Large white petunia need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

How much light does Large white petunia need for photosynthesis?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Large white petunia?

What is the optimal temperature for Large white petunia?

Does Large white petunia require different temperatures for different growing phases?

Does Large white petunia need different temperatures for different seasons?

What are the temperature guidelines to keep your Large white petunia healthy?

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Large white petunia?

Why do I need to fertilize my Large white petunia?

When is the best time to fertilize my Large white petunia?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Large white petunia?

What type of fertilizer does my Large white petunia need?

How do I fertilize my Large white petunia?

What happens if I fertilize my Large white petunia too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Large white petunia based on 10 million real cases

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

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Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

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Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

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Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

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Treat and prevent plant diseases.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Highlands

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Yellow

Pink

Purple

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Large white petunia

White moon petunia

Symbolism

Innocence, truth, trust, resentment

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Petunias

Species

Large white petunia

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Related Plants

Princess flower

Tibouchina urvilleana

Spathiphyllum cochlearispathum

15 Favorite Pink-Flowered Plants for Your Garden

# Useful Tips

# Useful Tips