"The large white petunia is the only plant in the petunia family to have white flowers that open during twilight hours, and as a result, it is also called the white moon petunia. The plant has been found to have antibacterial properties when tested in the lab.

Tips from Garden Coaches

Large white petunia has rich cultivated varieties to meet different needs. It can be used as a bedding plant, potted plant, ground cover, etc. With simple maintenance, you can have bright large white petunia flowers in the garden.
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Attract Birds

If you’re looking to create a garden that will attract hummingbirds, then large white petunia should definitely go on your list! Hummingbirds need different nectar sources to feed from, and the wider the selection, the better. They will be attracted to the tubular shapes of these flowers, especially if you go for cultivars that come in yellow, orange, and above all, red, which are all colors that naturally attract hummingbirds. Large white petunia can provide early-season food for these little nectar-feeders, and you'll do well planting them alongside other hummingbird favorites that bloom later in the year.
Poems


Looked I then up to the river-blue sky,
“God of the lily stars, if Thou be nigh
Show me a sign.” Then my pleading eyes fell
On a petunia's tender white bell.
— Louisa Lawson
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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.

Uses

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.

Interesting Facts

The ancient South American civilizations of the Maya and the Inca ascribed supernatural powers to Petunia axillaris and other Petunia species. It was said that the Petunia scent had the power to repel unclean spirits from the underworld. The flowers were also picked to be used in rituals and create special drinks supposed to have magical properties.

Symbolism

innocence, truth, trust, resentment

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb

Lifespan
Annual

Bloom Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn

Plant Height
25 cm to 60 cm
Spread
25 cm
Flower Size
4 cm to 6 cm
Habitat
Highlands
Flower Color
WhiteYellowRedPurplePinkVariegated
Leaf Color
Green

Care Guide


Water
Moisture-loving, keep the soil moist but do not let water accumulate.


Planting Time
Early spring


Harvest Time
Early spring"