Petunia derives its name from French which in turn derives the name ‘petun’ from the Tupi-Guarani, a Brazilian language. The plant is said to have a relation with tobacco plants botanically. Hence we get the name, ‘petunia’.

Though petunia is a perennial plant, it can behave like an annual one under favourable conditions. The plant bears attractive flowers which blossom from spring to summer. The flowers appear in a variety of colours like red, purple, white and yellow. The plant can be of an average height of approximately 6 inches or so. The plant can be trailing or bush-like depending upon its numerous species.

Petunias are found extensively in South America as well as in other parts of the world. They grow well in rather dry but fertile soils which must be well drained and which require bright sunlight. They even grow well in partial shade. They can resist drought to a moderate extent.

Petunias are popular garden flowers and are used for decorative purpose and for landscaping and flower beds. They are also used as cut flowers. The varieties seen in the gardens are mostly hybrids.