"The Story of Petunia: More Than Just a Pretty Flower"

 

Petunia is a genus of 20 flowering plant species that are native to South America. The popular flower known by the same name, petunia, gets its name from the Tupi-Guarani word "petun", which means "tobacco." Interestingly, petunias are closely related to the tobacco plant.

Most of the petunias found in gardens today are hybrids (commonly known as Petunia × atkinsiana or Petunia × hybrida). Petunia belongs to the Solanaceae family (also known as the nightshade family). This family also includes well-known plants like tobacco (from the subfamily Nicotianoideae).

Some botanists classify plants from the Calibrachoa genus under Petunia, but this view is not universally accepted. In fact, Petunia hybrids are often formed through a cross between Calibrachoa and Petunia.

In 2023, the USDA approved for sale a genetically engineered bioluminescent petunia hybrid, known as ‘Firefly’. These glowing white flowers shine because they contain genes from a bioluminescent fungus.

Some petunia cultivars that have received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit include:

🌸‘Storm Lavender’

🌸‘Storm Pink’

🌸‘Storm Salmon’

🌸‘Surfinia Pink Vein’

🌸‘Suntory Surfinia Purple’

In ancient times, sorcerers and the Inca people believed petunias had the power to ward off demons and evil spirits. Their flower buds were often used in magical potions.

🔹 Air Purification:

It has been proven that petunias improve air quality by removing harmful pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde from the air.

Those who love them can also grow petunias as ornamental plants in their homes and gardens.

 🌸 Courtesy Note:

This information is shared for the love of nature, flowers, and mindful living. Petunias, though delicate in appearance, carry a rich heritage, scientific value, and even mystical stories. May this inspire you to look at flowers not just for their beauty—but for their story, strength, and silent service to the world.