Have you ever been in the garden center and seen all of the different types of petunias, but couldn’t decide which one to buy? Wave petunias and regular petunias look very similar, but there are some important differences to consider.
In this article, we will look at what petunias and wave petunias are, the varieties of each type, the differences in size and color, their heat tolerance and bloom period, and the benefits of both types of petunias.
So if you’re looking for more information on petunias and wave petunias, keep reading!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Petunias are annual flowering plants that come in many colors and varieties, ranging from small, compact types to large, spreading types.
Wave petunias are a type of petunia that have a trailing habit and are less vigorous than some of the other petunia varieties.
They are perfect for containers and hanging baskets as they cascade gracefully over the sides.
Wave petunias are also more heat tolerant than some other petunia varieties, making them a great choice for more warm climates.
What are Petunias?
Petunias are beautiful, vibrant flowering plants that come in a wide range of colors and varieties.
They are popular in both outdoor and indoor gardens, and are generally easy to care for.
Petunias are usually classified as annuals, meaning they typically only bloom for one season, and must be replanted each year.
Petunias are often found in hanging baskets, container gardens, and flower beds, where they can create stunning displays of color.
Petunias come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, ranging from small, single-flowered varieties to large, double-flowered varieties.
They are also known for their delicate petals and fragrant aroma.
What are Wave Petunias?
Wave petunias are a hybrid variety of petunias that were developed in the 1990s.
They are a species of petunia with an upright, mounding growth habit that branches out to form a lush wave of flowers.
Wave petunias are characterized by their larger, bushier appearance that stands out from other types of petunias.
They typically come in solid color varieties rather than the multi-hued versions of the more traditional petunias.
Unlike other petunias, wave petunias are much more tolerant of hot weather and retain their blooms for longer periods of time.
They are also low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for and can tolerate a bit of neglect.
Wave petunias are often used in mass plantings, making them a popular choice for gardeners who want a stunning display of color and texture.
When it comes to planting wave petunias, they should be spaced further apart than other petunias and should be planted in soil that is well-draining and not too rich in nutrients.
Wave petunias require full sun and should be watered regularly to keep the soil damp but not soggy.
They can be easily propagated from cuttings and will reward gardeners with a vibrant display of color all season long.
Petunia Varieties
When it comes to petunias, there are two distinct varieties petunias and wave petunias.
While both are popular flowering plants, they have some key differences between them.
Petunias are the smaller and more delicate of the two varieties, and they come in a wide range of colors, including single- and double-flowered varieties.
Petunias generally require a bit more care and attention, as they are more sensitive to temperatures and weather conditions.
They have a shorter blooming period, so are best for gardeners who want a quick burst of color.
Wave petunias, on the other hand, are larger and bushier varieties, usually only available in solid colors.
They are more tolerant of hot weather and have a longer blooming period.
Wave petunias are ideal for gardeners who want a longer lasting display of color and don’t mind spending a bit more time tending to their plants.
Both types of petunias are great additions to any garden, and offer a variety of colors and textures for an attractive display.
Petunias are a great choice for gardeners who want an instant burst of color, while wave petunias are better suited for those who want a longer lasting display.
Whether you choose petunias or wave petunias, they will both bring beauty and interest to your garden.
Wave Petunia Varieties
Wave petunias are a unique variety of petunia that have an attractive, cascading habit.
These plants are usually sold in large, flat-bearing containers and have an upright growth habit.
The flowers of wave petunias are usually larger than the traditional petunia varieties, ranging from 1 to 4 inches in diameter.
They are also available in a wide range of solid colors, including red, pink, white, purple, and yellow.
Additionally, wave petunias are more tolerant of hot weather, making them a great choice for dry climates or hot summers.
They also have a longer blooming period than other petunias, which means they will provide an attractive display for a longer period of time.
With their large, colorful flowers and bushy habit, wave petunias are a great way to add color and texture to any garden.
Differences in Size and Color
The main difference between petunias and wave petunias is size and color.
Petunias are smaller, more delicate, and typically come in a wider range of colors, including single- and double-flowered varieties.
Wave petunias, on the other hand, are larger and bushier, and usually only come in solid colors.
Petunias can range in size from just a few inches to several feet tall and wide, while wave petunias typically reach a maximum height of about two feet and are slightly wider.
When it comes to color, petunias come in an array of shades and hues, from traditional pink and purple to more exotic shades like yellow and orange.
Wave petunias tend to be more limited in color selection, usually just coming in solid colors like white, pink, purple, and lavender.
While traditional petunias come in single- and double-flowered varieties, wave petunias only come in single-flowered varieties.
Both types of petunias are great additions to any garden, and offer a variety of colors and textures for an attractive display.
The different sizes and colors of petunias are sure to bring eye-catching beauty to any outdoor space.
Heat Tolerance and Bloom Period
When it comes to heat tolerance and bloom period, there are some key differences between petunias and wave petunias.
Petunias are generally more sensitive to heat and can only bloom for a short period of time when exposed to temperatures above 85 degrees.
On the other hand, wave petunias are much more tolerant of hot weather and can bloom for a much longer period of time.
This makes wave petunias an ideal choice for gardeners in areas with hot summers, as they can provide a vibrant display of color throughout the season.
Wave petunias also tend to be larger and bushier than petunias, with blooms that are often solid colored.
This makes them a great choice for creating a bold and striking display in your garden.
Benefits of Both Types of Petunias
Both types of petunias can provide a stunning and colorful display in any garden.
Petunias are valued for their small, delicate blooms that come in many colors, from single- to double-flowered varieties.
Wave petunias offer a larger, bushier look and are usually available in solid colors.
Both types of petunias bring bright and beautiful colors to the garden and can be used to create a variety of looks.
Petunias are especially ideal for containers and hanging baskets because of their small and delicate blooms.
They also come in a range of colors, from pastels to bright shades, that can be arranged in a variety of ways.
Wave petunias, on the other hand, are better suited to larger areas, such as flower beds or borders, as their larger blooms create a more dramatic and eye-catching display.
Both types of petunias can also provide a long-lasting display of color and texture.
Petunias are generally more tolerant of cooler temperatures, while wave petunias are more tolerant of hot weather and can last longer in the summer months.
Additionally, wave petunias have a longer blooming period than petunias, making them a great option for gardeners who want to enjoy a long-lasting display of color.
Final Thoughts
Petunias and wave petunias are both beautiful flowering plants that can add a vibrant splash of color to any garden.
While there are some key differences between the two, such as size, color, and heat tolerance, both types of petunias are great choices for any gardener.
With the wide variety of petunia and wave petunia varieties available, gardeners can find the perfect type of petunia to suit their needs and create a beautiful, eye-catching display.
So get out there and explore all the different petunia varieties available to you!