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Plant Profiles / Calibrachoa (million bells)
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Calibrachoa (million bells)
Calibrachoa hybrids · Million bells
Hundreds of tiny petunia-like flowers on trailing stems. Perfect for hanging baskets and pot edges.
Full sunLight
Daily in heatWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
6 or more hours of sun.
Water
Daily in heat
DryWet
Water when the top dries; don't keep soggy.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
10–32°C (50–90°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Fast, trailing
SlowFast
Trails 30–60 cm.
Soil
Free-draining mix
LeanRich
Quality potting mix.
Fertiliser
Weekly
RarelyOften
Liquid fertiliser with iron.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
Calibrachoa is related to petunias but has smaller flowers and needs no deadheading. It needs free-draining, slightly acidic mix and regular feeding.
Best spots
Hanging baskets, window boxes and pot edges in sun.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Calibrachoa hybrids |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Origin | South America (parents) |
| Plant type | Annual or tender perennial |
| Mature size | 15–25 cm, trailing |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Flowers | Small bells, many colours |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Flowering
Trim
PlantFloweringTrim
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow leaves | Iron deficiency or high pH. |
| Wilting | Root rot or underwatering. |
| Leggy | Trim back. |
| Few flowers | Needs more sun and feed. |
| Aphids | Hose off. |
Common questions
Do I need to deadhead?
No.
Is it a petunia?
A close relative.
Is it perennial?
Short-lived in warm areas.
Pet safe?
Yes.
