Calibrachoa 'Million Bells' is a popular, trailing annual plant celebrated for its profusion of small, petunia-like flowers and its vigorous growth. These Calibrachoa cultivars are known for their continuous blooming throughout the growing season, creating a cascade of colour. They are ideal for hanging baskets, containers, and window boxes, adding a vibrant display to patios, balconies, and gardens. They belong to the Solanaceae family.
Origin: Calibrachoa are native to South America. 'Million Bells' is a series of cultivated hybrids developed for their abundant flowering and compact growth.
Light: They thrive in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the most abundant flowering.
Water: Water regularly, allowing the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Soil: They prefer well-drained, fertile soil. A quality potting mix designed for containers is ideal.
Fertilizing: Feed regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer or a fertilizer formulated for flowering plants during the growing season.
Pruning: Pinch back stems in early growth to encourage branching and bushier growth. Deadheading is generally not required, as 'Million Bells' are self-cleaning.
Temperature: They prefer warm temperatures and are not frost-tolerant. In cooler climates, they are grown as annuals.
Growth Habit: They have a trailing growth habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets and containers.
Flowering: They bloom profusely from spring through autumn, producing small, petunia-like flowers in a wide range of colours, including pink, red, purple, yellow, orange, and white.
Uses:
- Primarily grown as ornamental plants for their abundant, colourful flowers.
- Ideal for hanging baskets, containers, and window boxes.
- Adds a vibrant display to patios and balconies.
Toxicity: Calibrachoa is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets, but it's always best to keep plants out of reach of children and pets who might ingest them.