Hardy Petunias

The Daily Telegraph reports today (Saturday 30th March 2013) that a 10 year mission to create a frost-resistant petunia has come to fruition.   The summer bedding favourite is usually killed by the first frost but the new 'below-zero' variety will last through snow and freezing conditions.  

This isn't the first mention of a hardy petunia and as long ago as 2009 the 'wintunia', a variety with small star shaped flower, was touted as a frost resistant form.   This doesn't appear to be readily available, however.  

Below-zero is available from vanmeuwen.com.

Hardy petunia Below-Zero

The 'wintunia'