Calibrachoa, often called “million bells” or “mini-petunias,” are popular, low-maintenance, trailing plants that bloom in a rainbow of colors from spring until frost. They are actually in the Solanaceae (nightshade) family, closely related to eggplants, tomatoes, and potatoes. These self-cleaning, sun-loving plants require no deadheading to maintain their non-stop, prolific blooming.
4 Fun Facts About Calibrachoa:
Not Usually Grown from Seed: Most Calibrachoa are “vegetative,” meaning they are propagated by cuttings, not seeds.
Mini Petunia Lookalikes: While they resemble petunias, Calibrachoa are a distinct genus with unique chromosomal differences.
“Million Bells” is a Real Name: “Million Bells” is actually a specific, trademarked series, but it is often used to refer to all Calibrachoa, which produce prolific 1-inch, trumpet-shaped flowers.
They Are Self-Cleaning: No deadheading (removing old blooms) is required, as the plant naturally drops spent flowers.