Calibrachoa aka Petunia

Taxonomy

Calibrachoa, a genus of plants in the Solanaceae family, is an evergreen short-lived perennial and subshrub with a sprawling habit. Similar to petunias, it is found in the same region of South America, ranging from southern Brazil to Peru and Chile, where it thrives in scrub and open grassland. This evergreen perennial, often grown as an annual, features semi-trailing stems, simple leaves, and cream flowers with broad, pinky-red stripes that bloom continuously throughout summer and autumn. Commonly known as million bells, Calibrachoa offers a multitude of colors, including solids, two-tones, stripes, patterns, and double blooms. Its compact oval-shaped leaves have a slightly sticky texture. Ideal for hanging baskets, bowls, or mixed containers, Calibrachoa is a versatile spiller plant that can also be showcased in unique containers like colanders or plastic laundry baskets. With proper care, this prolific bloomer will reward gardeners with an abundance of 1-inch blossoms resembling miniature petunias, ensuring a vibrant display from spring to fall. While it can be planted in garden beds, Calibrachoa tends to thrive best in containers.

Common names

Petunia, Superbells Lemon Slice Calibrachoa, Superbells Yellow Chiffon Calibrachoa

How to care for Petunia

Difficulty

Petunia presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Petunia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Petunia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Petunia thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Superbells Yellow Chiffon Calibrachoa.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Petunia. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Petunia is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Petunia’s native range is South America.


More info:
Wikipedia