Large White Petunia

Petunia axillaris

Native to:
Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Solanaceae
Genus:
Petunia
Species:
Petunia axillaris
USDA Symbol:
PEAX

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Annual
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
60 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct
Bloom Colors:
white

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Virginia Tiger Moth (Spilosoma virginica), Yellow-striped armyworm (Spodoptera ornithogalli)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
butterflies, moths, hummingbirds
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to South American grasslands and open areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
None required
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Seeds require light for germination; surface sow and do not cover. Optimal germination temperature 70-75°F.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI