If you’re looking for a flower that stops people in their tracks, look no further than the black petunia – rare and velvety. This stunning bloom isn’t truly black, but the deepest, richest purple you can imagine, appearing like midnight velvet in your garden.
Their unique color makes them a fantastic choice for creating dramatic contrast. They’re surprisingly easy to grow, much like their more common pink and white cousins. Let’s look at how you can add these special plants to your own space.
Black Petunia – Rare and Velvety
What makes these flowers so special? It’s all in the pigment. Breeders worked for years to develop a petunia with such intense, dark coloring. The result is a flower that absorbs almost all light, giving it that remarkable near-black appearance.
The petals have a soft, velvety texture that begs to be touched. They are a relatively modern creation, hitting the market in the last couple of decades. Since then, they’ve become a coveted prize for gardeners who want something a little different.
Popular Varieties to Try
You’ll find a few excellent named varieties when you go shopping. Each has its own slight character.
- ‘Black Velvet’: The classic. This is the one that started the trend, with large, single blooms and that signature velvety look.
- ‘Black Cat’: Known for its prolific flowering and slightly earlier bloom time. It’s a very reliable performer.
- ‘Phantom’: Offers a stunning contrast with a bright yellow star in the center of the dark flower.
- ‘Black Mamba’: A trailing variety, perfect for hanging baskets where the dark flowers can spill over the edges.
How to Grow Black Petunias Successfully
Growing these beauties isn’t hard if you follow some basic steps. They thrive in conditions similar to other petunias.
Planting and Location
First, you need the right spot. Black petunias need full sun to achieve their darkest color. At least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight is best. In shade, they may become more of a dark purple and get leggy.
Use well-draining soil. They hate having wet feet. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in some compost or use a high-quality potting mix for containers. Plant them after all danger of frost has passed in the spring.
Watering and Feeding
Watering is crucial. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Its often best to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.
For feeding, they are heavy feeders. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. Or, you can mix a slow-release fertilizer into the soil at planting time. This will give them the nutrients they need for constant blooms.
Deadheading and Pruning
To keep your plants blooming all season, you must deadhead. This means pinching off the faded flowers. It stops the plant from going to seed and encourages more buds.
By mid-summer, petunias can sometimes get straggly. Don’t be afraid to give them a hard prune, cutting them back by about half. They will bounce back with fresh growth and a new flush of flowers in a few weeks.
Design Ideas for Your Garden
The deep color of black petunias opens up amazing design possibilities. They are fantastic for creating mood and contrast.
- Monochromatic Magic: Pair them with other dark-foliaged plants like black mondo grass, heuchera ‘Obsidian’, or coleus. It creates a sophisticated, moody look.
- Stark Contrast: This is where they shine. Combine them with bright white alyssum, yellow marigolds, or silver dusty miller. The dark flowers pop dramatically.
- Container Focus: Plant them alone in a pot for a stunning focal point. A simple black petunia in a white or metallic pot looks incredibly modern.
- Edging and Borders: Use them to line a walkway. They’ll define the space with a bold, elegant edge that draws the eye.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even the best gardeners face a few issues. Here’s what to watch for with your petunias.
Aphids and Budworms
Aphids love tender new growth. You might see clusters of small green or black insects. A strong spray of water from the hose often knocks them off. For budworms, which eat the flower buds, an organic Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray is very effective.
Fungal Diseases
Powdery mildew and gray mold (Botrytis) can be problems, especially in humid weather or with overhead watering. Ensure good air circulation around your plants and water at the soil level. If you see a problem, remove affected leaves and consider a fungicide.
Leggy Growth
If your plants get long stems with few leaves, they need more sun or a trim. As mentioned, a good pruning and moving them to a sunnier spot (if possible) will help.
How to Save Seeds (A Note of Caution)
You might want to save seeds from your stunning black petunias. It’s important to know that many modern varieties are hybrids. This means seeds saved from them will not grow true to the parent plant.
The seedlings might revert to a different color or form. For guaranteed black flowers, it’s best to buy new plants or seeds from a reputable supplier each year. But, experimenting with saved seeds can be a fun surprise, even if the results are unpredictable.
FAQ About Black Petunias
Are black petunias really black?
No, they are an extremely dark purple. The concentration of pigment is so high that they appear black to the eye, especially in certain lights.
Do black petunias need special care compared to other colors?
Not really. Their care is identical to other petunia varieties. Plenty of sun, regular water, and frequent feeding will keep them happy.
Why are my black petunias turning purple?
Insufficient sunlight is the most common cause. The more sun they get, the darker the blooms will be. Extreme heat can sometimes cause slight fading too.
Can I grow black petunias from seed?
Yes, you can. Look for seed packets from companies like ‘Black Velvet’ or ‘Black Cat’. Start them indoors 10-12 weeks before your last frost date, as petunia seeds need a long head start.
Are they perennials?
In most climates, petunias are grown as annuals. They might survive a mild winter, but they generally perform best in a single growing season. In very warm climates (zones 9-11), they can sometimes act as short-lived perennials.
What pairs well with black petunias?
Almost any bright or light color creates amazing contrast. Think white, lime green, bright pink, silver, or yellow. They also look great with dark foliage plants for a tonal scheme.
Adding these unique flowers to your garden is a sure way to create a talking point. With their simple care needs and breathtaking color, the black petunia – rare and velvety – is worth seeking out for a truly standout garden display this year.