ARTISTREE’S TAKE ON MEXICAN PETUNIA: LOVELY BUT DON’T IGNORE IT.

Q: I’m being dead serious when I say I could even kill a silk flower. I can’t get anything to grow. I’m looking for a non-fussy plant that could grow in a contained area (along my stone wall) and provide some bright color. Does Mother Nature make anything in purple that won’t wilt as soon as I look at it?

A: Sure, she does, and it’s called Mexican Petunia. But we have to warn you, it grows REALLY well and can be invasive if you don’t keep it in check. Still, we like this stalk-forming perennial for certain areas (it comes in white and pink as well). The more sun it receives, the more it will bloom. You must regularly manage it to keep it from spreading; we recommend hand-pulling and trimming as needed, and keeping the runners clipped.

We’ve never heard of anyone killing this species before and doubt you’ll be the first. Just walk outside, enjoy the stunning color and keep your garden gloves nearby.

Category Florida-friendly/Native Plants, Landscape Design, Plant selection