Calibrachoa Growing Guide

What is Calibrachoa?

Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa hybrid) also known as Million Bells is a short lived compact trailing perennial. It is part of the Solanaceae family and has been cultivated from the native plant from South America. Calibrachoa has a low, spreading habit and is usually covered in small, bell-like flowers that resemble miniature petunias. The flowers come in a variety of colours such as violet, blue, pink, red, magenta, yellow, orange and white. The flowers can be single or doubles that flower from early Spring all the way until late Autumn. Calibrachoa  should be planted in full sun with fertile free draining soil. It should be sheltered and protected from severe frosts.

Benefits of Growing Calibrachoa

They are a compact and easy to maintain plant that will provide an abundance of colour for many months of the year. It is perfect as a trailing ground cover or spilling over a hanging basket.  They grow extremely well in borders or planters, pots and tubs. Perfect if you are trying to create a cottage style garden.

How to Grow Calibrachoa

Calibrachoa Double White

Climatic Zones

Cool to mild tropical.

Plant Size

Height: 20cm, Width: 40cm

When To Plant Calibrachoa

Plant in Spring after the last frost.

Soil Preparation

They require a free draining and fertile soil. Mix through some compost into the soil before planting.

How To Plant Calibrachoa

Plant in full sun (part shade in a warmer climate), 40-50cm apart with the plant crown at soil level.

Calibrachoa Plant Care

Keep moist during the hotter seasons and water when rainfall isn’t sufficient.

Trim lightly at the end of the flowering period to encourage fresh growth.

Feed annually in early Spring with a general purpose fertiliser.

Recommended Calibrachoa Varieties

Whether these plants are trailing along the ground or sprawling out of a hanging basket they will be full of colour most months of the year.

Calibrachoa Double Pinktastic

Calibrachoa Blue

Calibrachoa Conga Red