Ray Sunflower - Petunia

Petunia hybrida 'Ray Sunflower' is a mounded, early-flowering selection with large yellow trumpet-shaped blooms marked by dark brown stripes. The grower profile lists a 6–10 inch height and 12–14 inch spread, making it a compact option for pots and smaller garden displays. ## Appearance and use Lucas Greenhouses identifies Danziger as the breeder and describes the flowers as yellow and black, with a uniform mounded habit. The named selection is Ray Sunflower; keep it distinct from Ray Sunflower Improved and Sunshine Improved. Its bright bicolor flowers work well where a compact, high-contrast petunia is wanted. ## Growing conditions Petunias perform best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Kew classifies Petunia in Solanaceae ([Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:331845-2)). Use a free-draining potting mix in containers and avoid heavy, poorly drained garden soil. The general petunia guidance from Illinois Extension applies to the species, while the height and spread above are specific to this selection. ## Maintenance Grow as a warm-season annual and protect from frost. Keep the root zone evenly moist, especially in containers, and pinch back late-season growth if stems become loose. Sources: [Lucas Greenhouses plant profile](https://www.lucasgreenhouses.com/plant/Petunia-hybrida-Ray-Sunflower) and [Illinois Extension petunia guide](https://extension.illinois.edu/flowers/petunia).