19 Stunning Calibrachoa Varieties for Colorful, Effortless Gardens
Mingle bold solids and playful bicolors for low-fuss, cascading blooms in every planter.
19 Gorgeous Varieties of Calibrachoa (Million Bells)
Few annuals rival calibrachoa â also called million bells â for sheer color range, hardiness, and container appeal. Originating from South America, calibrachoa produces masses of miniature, trumpet-shaped blooms that cascade from hanging baskets, window boxes, and patio planters. Unlike petunias, these plants thrive with minimal deadheading and withstand light frost, offering reliable beauty all season long.
Letâs explore 19 distinct calibrachoa varieties celebrated for their vivid coloration, intriguing patterns, and easy-care nature.
Why Choose Calibrachoa?
- Abundant blooms: Produces hundreds of flowers throughout the growing season.
- Low maintenance: Few pests, minimal need for deadheading, withstands varying conditions.
- Broad color palette: From pastels to saturated tones, stripes, stars, and bicolors.
- Ideal for containers: Trailing, mounding habit perfect for baskets and combination plantings.
Calibrachoa vs Petunia: Key Differences
| Feature | Calibrachoa | Petunia |
|---|---|---|
| Flower Size | Small (1” diameter) | Medium to large (2 3″ diameter) |
| Growth Habit | Trailing/mounding | Upright/trailing |
| Deadheading Needed | Rarely | Regularly |
| Hardiness | Tolerates light frost | More tender |
Though calibrachoa flowers resemble small petunias, theyâre a separate species and are generally tougher and more floriferous.
How to Grow Calibrachoa: Quick Guide
- Plant in full sun to part shade for best flowering.
- Use well-draining potting mix (avoid heavy soils).
- Feed with a liquid fertilizer every 2â3 weeks during growing season.
- Water regularly, but avoid soggy conditions.
- Inspect plants before bringing home from garden centers to avoid pests.
Top 19 Calibrachoa Varieties
Each cultivar showcases unique coloring, patterns, or bloom forms. Mix and match these varieties for eye-catching displays!
1. âCabaret Goodnight Kissâ
Deep magenta petals edged in bright fuchsia with four small yellow star-like streaks radiating into the yellow center. This bold flower works beautifully solo or combined with bright yellows for dramatic contrast.
2. âSuperbells Tropical Sunriseâ
Pink and yellow striped petals provide a tropical flair. Exclusively available through accredited nurseries, this patented variety should not be propagated by cuttings.
3. âChameleon Blueberry Sconeâ
A distinct bicolor selection fading from soft blue to pastel yellow in the center. Perfect for pairing with dark foliage or yellow blooms to highlight its subtle contrast.
4. âSuperbells Double Orangeâ
Ruffled, semi-double flowers in soft orange with hints of pink or red. Adds visual interest and softness to planters.
5. âCallie Yellowâ
Pure, cheerful yellow from edge to center, making it ideal to brighten up shaded spots or act as a base for mixed arrangements.
6. âSuperbells Yellowâ
Classic golden-yellow throughout, these cultivars also feature robust flowering and strong trailing growth.
What others are reading
7. âKabloom Yellowâ
Vivid, saturated yellow blooms covering the plant for months. A staple in sunny garden designs and paired with blues or pinks.
8. âNeop Pink Hawaiiâ
Unique multi-tone blooms: light pink petals with a deep pink center, transitioning to soft yellow and white around the throat. Colorfully stable â every blossom is consistent, making it a favorite for reliable display.
9. âNeop Deep Pinkâ
From the same Neo Series, these offer deep, saturated pink petals, often paired with contrasting centers for a vibrant punch among whites or lavenders.
10. âSuperbells Lemon Sliceâ
Striking pinwheel stripes in white and bright lemon yellow. Compact habit (6â12 inches tall), favored for mounding baskets and mass color effects.
11. âSuperbells Mixâ
Superbells varieties are renowned for diverse colors and patterns â many garden centers stock mixes with purple, yellow, orange, and reds for instant container charisma.
12. âChameleon Double Amberâ
Beautiful double-flowered blooms in amber tones with hints of gold and orange. Double blooms add fullness and interest to mixed arrangements.
13. âKabloom Light Blueâ
Soft powder blue petals with that ever-present yellow center. Pairs well with pastels, whites, or silver-leaved plants for a serene display.
14. âCabaret Pinkâ
Classic deep rosy-pink petals surrounding a bright yellow eye. Very floriferous â perfect for solo displays or pairing with purple and white varieties.
15. âCallie Purpleâ
True rich purple blooms with a deep yellow center. Bold color for dramatic contrasts or monochrome purple combinations.
16. âCabaret Whiteâ
Pure white flowers that bring brightness to any basket. Highlights and cools multicolored plantings.
17. âKabloom Redâ
Saturated scarlet-red petals; a favorite for patriotic themes or hot-color arrangements.
18. âMega Pinkâ
Extra-large pink blooms and vigorous trailing habit. Excellent for dramatic spillover in baskets or window boxes.
19. âChameleon Double Magentaâ
Double petals in deep magenta, fading to lighter tips. Adds texture and richness to your collection, especially when blended with creamy yellows or pastels.
Designing with Calibrachoa Varieties
- Combine contrasting colors (e.g., magenta and yellow) for eye-popping displays.
- Mix single and double bloom types for textural interest.
- Use striped and solid flowers together to balance vibrancy and calm.
- Blend trailing and mounding types for lush, overflowing containers.
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant after danger of frost, spacing 8â12 inches apart in containers or garden beds.
- Deadhead sparingly; most modern varieties self-clean and drop spent blooms naturally.
- Feed every 2â3 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer for lush growth.
- Water daily in hot conditions, ensuring pots drain freely.
- Inspect for aphids and thrips before planting (most nursery infestations can be caught early).
Common Questions About Calibrachoa
Q: Are calibrachoa perennials or annuals?
A: Most calibrachoa are grown as annuals except in warm climate zones (USDA 9â11), where they can be perennial.
Q: Do calibrachoa need full sun?
A: They bloom best in full sun but tolerate part shade. Too much shade will reduce flowering.
Q: Can calibrachoa be grown from seed?
A: Yes, certain varieties of calibrachoa can be grown from seed. However, most commercial lines are propagated by cuttings due to consistent bloom traits.
Q: Why are the leaves on my calibrachoa yellowing?
A: Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or root rot. Ensure containers have good drainage and use liquid fertilizer for healthy growth.
Q: How can I prevent pests?
A: Inspect plants before purchase, avoid crowding, and use insecticidal soap for occasional aphids or thrips.
More Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How tall do calibrachoa grow?
A: Most varieties reach 6â12 inches in height and spread much wider, making them ideal for baskets and spillover effects.
Q: Are calibrachoa deer resistant?
A: Calibrachoa shows moderate deer resistance but may be browsed in periods of food scarcity.
Q: Will calibrachoa attract pollinators?
A: Yes! Bees and hummingbirds love calibrachoa blooms, adding lively activity to your landscape.
Q: Do calibrachoa varieties cross-pollinate?
A: Calibrachoa seldom set viable seed under garden conditions due to most varieties being hybrids or sterile; propagation is usually via cuttings.
Inspiring Calibrachoa Container Recipes
- Tropical Mix: âSuperbells Tropical Sunriseâ + Cabaret Pink + Kabloom Yellow
- Pastel Basket: âChameleon Blueberry Sconeâ + Kabloom Light Blue + Cabaret White
- Patriotic Planter: Kabloom Red + Callie White + Kabloom Yellow
- Colorburst Cascade: Superbells Mix + Mega Pink + Chameleon Double Magenta
Conclusion: Why This Yearâs Garden Needs Calibrachoa
If you crave bold displays, minimal fuss, and nearly endless color options, calibrachoa is an unbeatable choice. Use these 19 dynamic varieties to create your dream baskets, window boxes, or patio planters, and experience a garden that flourishes with little intervention. Shop local nurseries for an ever-growing selection and share your favorites with fellow gardeners!
References
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Srija Burman
