A bold red in a violet-and-white family
The two wild parents of garden petunias are a white species and a violet one, so red is a colour that breeders added through selection. The only red-flowered wild species is Petunia exserta, a rare plant pollinated by hummingbirds. Everything you buy in red or scarlet belongs to the cultivated hybrid, Petunia × atkinsiana. Garden petunias are visited by insects, and the hummingbird hawk moth is known to favour the tubular flowers.
Is there a meaning behind red petunia?
People search for the meaning, and the truth is that no authoritative tradition exists. Red flowers generally suggest warmth and energy, and a pot of scarlet petunias beside the door is a cheerful signal on a grey day. If you plan to give a red petunia for a special reason, add a short note to explain what you intend.
Practical growing tips
- Red cultivars fade and scorch more readily in hot afternoon sun, so a spot with some shade after midday helps.
- Water until it runs from the base of the pot, then wait for the compost surface to dry before the next drink.
- Add a high-potash tomato feed every week or so to promote flowers over leaves.
- Remove spent blooms before the seed pods swell.
Making red work in the garden
Red petunias are striking with white alyssum, grey-leaved plants and dark blue lobelia. Avoid placing them beside orange or pink-red, which can clash. In windy western spots, choose a compact trailing type that will not be torn to ribbons.
Safe for animals?
The ASPCA records petunia species as non-toxic for cats, dogs and horses.
