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Calibrachoa

Image of Calibrachoa

James H. Schutte

Family

Solanaceae

Botanical Name

Calibrachoa

Plant Common Name

Calibrachoa, Million Bells

General Description

Differing from petunias in their smaller flowers and wiry, semi-woody stems, these cold-tender, heat-loving perennials are becoming increasingly popular as annual bedding and container plants. Most of the approximately 30 Calibrachoa species are native to southern Brazil or neighboring areas. Commercially available cultivars descend from hybrids among these species, and are propagated vegetatively.

These low, mounding to trailing plants have well-branched stems furnished with small, fuzzy, oval leaves. In mild weather, numerous small, funnel-shaped, petunia-like blooms appear in the leaf axils. Bloom may continue year-round in frost-free sites. Popular cultivars include those in the Minifamous™ Series, which flower prolifically on trailing stems.

All Calibrachoa appreciate full sun and fertile, well-drained, mildly acidic soil. Since they flower so prolifically, they need regular water, but overwatering can lead to root or crown rot. Deadheading is not required but plants bloom better late in the season if they are lightly cut back in late summer.

These vibrant high performers will add a splash of color to any sunny garden spot and are perfect for hanging baskets or containers. They also look great planted in masses or spilling over the edge of a retaining wall. They also make great perennials for mild climates, with some varieties enduring USDA Zone 7 winters.

Characteristics

  • AHS Heat Zone

    12 - 1

  • USDA Hardiness Zone

    9 - 11

  • Sunset Zone

    8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24

  • Plant Type

    Tender Perennial

  • Sun Exposure

    Full Sun, Partial Sun

  • Height

    4"-12" / 10.2cm - 30.5cm

  • Width

    8"-24" / 20.3cm - 61.0cm

  • Bloom Time

    Indeterminate

  • Native To

    North America, Mexico, Central America, South America

Growing Conditions

  • Soil pH

    Acidic, Neutral

  • Soil Drainage

    Well Drained

  • Soil type

    Loam, Sand

  • Growth Rate

    Fast

  • Water Requirements

    Average Water

  • Seasonal Interest

    Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Ornamental Features

  • Flower Interest

    Showy

  • Flower Color

    White, Yellow, Red, Blue, Purple, Orange, Pink

  • Foliage Color (Spring)

    Green, Gray Green

  • Foliage Color (Summer)

    Green, Gray Green

  • Foliage Color (Fall)

    Green, Gray Green

  • Foliage Color (Winter)

    Green, Gray Green

  • Fragrant Flowers

    No

  • Fragrant Fruit

    No

  • Fragrant Foliage

    No

  • Bark or Stem Fragrant

    No

  • Flower Petal Number

    Single, Double, Semi-Double

  • Repeat Bloomer

    Yes

  • Showy Fruit

    No

  • Edible Fruit

    No

  • Showy Foliage

    No

  • Foliage Texture

    Medium

  • Foliage Sheen

    Matte

  • Evergreen

    Semi-Evergreen

  • Showy Bark

    No

Special Characteristics

  • Usage

    Bedding Plant, Container, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall, Tropical

  • Sharp or Has Thorns

    No

  • Invasive

    No

  • Attracts

    Hummingbirds

  • Self-Sowing

    No