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Description
Petunia Surprise Lime is a popular annual plant known for its bright green foliage and vibrant lime green flowers. This plant is a hybrid of petunia and calibrachoa, which creates a unique and stunning appearance. It is a compact plant that blooms profusely from spring until the first frost. Petunia Surprise Lime is perfect for adding color and texture to garden beds, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Petunia |
Appearance
Petunia Surprise Lime features bright green leaves and vibrant lime green flowers that resemble small petunias. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have a yellow center. They bloom profusely in spring and summer and can grow up to 12 inches in height and 16 inches in width. This plant has a compact and mounding growth habit, making it ideal for garden beds, borders, and containers. Petunia Surprise Lime is a drought-tolerant plant that requires minimal maintenance.
Care Guide
Petunia Surprise Lime is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Water your plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. This will help promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Soil: Plant your Petunia Surprise Lime in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This will help ensure good drainage and healthy root development.
Sunlight: Petunia Surprise Lime prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure your plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and blooming.
Hardiness Zones: Petunia Surprise Lime is suitable for planting in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Petunia Surprise Lime is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it may be susceptible to some common issues, including:
Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Whiteflies: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control whiteflies.
Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Petunia Surprise Lime is native to South America and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers warm and humid climates and can tolerate some drought. This plant is commonly grown as an annual in many parts of the world and is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color and texture to their landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Petunia Surprise Lime from seed?
A: Yes, Petunia Surprise Lime can be grown from seed. However, it is easier to purchase established plants from a nursery or garden center.
Q: Does Petunia Surprise Lime attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Petunia Surprise Lime is known to attract bees and butterflies with its bright and vibrant flowers.
Q: How often should I fertilize Petunia Surprise Lime?
A: Petunia Surprise Lime should be fertilized every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Petunia Surprise Lime in a container?
A: Yes, Petunia Surprise Lime is an excellent choice for container gardening. Make sure the container has good drainage and provide regular watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Petunia ‘Surprise Yellow’
- Petunia ‘Surprise Blue’
- Petunia ‘Surprise Pink’
References
- “Petunia Surprise Lime.” Proven Winners, www.provenwinners.com/plants/petunia/surprise-lime-petunia-hybrid.
- “Petunia ‘Surprise Lime’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280457&isprofile=0&basic=petunia%20s.
