Mini Petunia
calibrachoa parviflora
Also known as: ["Million Bells","Superbells"]
Overview
A trailing plant with small, petunia-like flowers, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Calibrachoa |
| Botanical Name: | Calibrachoa parviflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: hanging baskets or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; deadhead flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back leggy stems by one-third to half.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; provide dappled shade in peak summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); cooler temperatures at night promote better flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; remove dead or yellowing foliage.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers to promote continuous flowering.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove spent blooms; cut back leggy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure 1–2 inch gap for root growth.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water plant before repotting; trim roots if necessary.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use cactus mix as base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or death in frost conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth for protection; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; flush soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCalibrachoa parviflora is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCalibrachoa parviflora is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCalibrachoa parviflora is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Calibrachoa?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Calibrachoa need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal flowering.
Q: Can Calibrachoa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with bright, indirect light and proper watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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