Calibrachoa [Million Bells Trailing Pink] Calibrachoa Million Bells Trailing Pink = 'Sunbelkupi' (Million Bells Series)
ABOUT
[Million Bells Trailing Pink] is a compact, trailing plant with pink flowers to 3cm wide opening from late spring to autumn
About this plant
- Names
Synonyms
Million Bells, Mini Petunia, Trailing Calibrachoa.
Common names
Calibrachoa 'Sunbelkupi'
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
18-24 inches (45-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South America
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Easy to Grow: Calibrachoa is known for being easy to care for, which suits gardeners of all levels.
- Continuous Blooms: It blooms prolifically from early spring to fall, providing long-lasting color.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry weather, reducing the need for constant watering.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and is not typically prone to disease, which saves time and effort.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for hanging baskets, containers, and window boxes due to its trailing habit.
- Vibrant Color: Offers vibrant pink flowers that can brighten up any space.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Photography Prop: Calibrachoa 'Million Bells' can be used as a photogenic subject or as a natural backdrop for macro photography due to its vibrant pink flowers.
- Artistic Inspiration: The trailing growth and bright coloration of 'Million Bells' provide a visual stimulus for artists looking to incorporate natural beauty into their paintings or designs.
- Fairy Gardens: 'Million Bells' is ideal for creating whimsical fairy gardens due to its miniature bell-shaped flowers and trailing habit.
- Gift Plant: With its continuous bloom and low maintenance, 'Million Bells' makes for a charming gift option for garden enthusiasts or as a living bouquet alternative.
- Table Decoration: Small pots of 'Million Bells' can be used as living centerpieces for outdoor dining, lending a fresh and colorful touch to the setting.
- Educational Tool: 'Million Bells' can serve as a plant for educational purposes in schools, helping children learn about botany and plant growth cycles.
- Wedding Decor: The trailing pink blooms can be used in wedding decor, either as part of the floral arrangements or as decorations for the aisle or reception tables.
- Craft Material: Dried 'Million Bells' flowers can be used in crafting, for instance, in making potpourri or as a natural dye for fabrics and papers.
- Color Themes: 'Million Bells' can be utilized in garden design to establish or accentuate a pink color scheme in a landscape or container garden.
- Culinary Garnish: While not commonly consumed, the flowers of 'Million Bells' can be used as a decorative, non-toxic garnish for plating desserts or drinks in high-end culinary presentations.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Million Bells is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Million Bells is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Abundance: The 'Million Bells' aspect of its common name suggests a sense of plentifulness and vast numbers, symbolizing an outpouring of resources or emotions.
- Charm and Attraction: Its delightful pink trailing blossoms are often associated with charm and the power to attract or capture hearts.
- Celebration: The vibrant color and the bell shape of the flowers can symbolize joy and the festive spirit often present during celebrations.
- Youthfulness: The fresh pink hue and the plant's buoyant growth habit are reminiscent of youthful energy and the bliss of youth.
- Gratitude: Often used in baskets and as gifts, these plants can represent feelings of thankfulness and appreciation.
- Water
Million Bells prefer consistent moisture, so it's essential to water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During hot weather, this might mean watering daily, while in cooler conditions, every few days could suffice. An average guideline would be to provide about 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant each week, but always adjust according to weather conditions and soil moisture levels. It's important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot; ensuring proper drainage is key.
- Light
Million Bells thrive in full sun, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for these plants would be in a location where they receive morning sunlight and are protected from the harsh afternoon sun in very hot climates. However, they are versatile and can also do well in partial sun, especially in regions with very intense sunlight.
- Temperature
Million Bells flourish in warm conditions with ideal temperatures ranging between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night, and 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can tolerate a temperature range from about 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit but will suffer if temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods.
- Pruning
Pruning Million Bells is necessary to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. It's best to prune them lightly throughout the growing season by pinching back the stem tips. This helps maintain their shape and promotes the development of new flowers. The best time for pruning is when the plants start to look leggy or after a major flush of blooms has started to fade.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Million Bells prefer well-draining soil with a mix of peat moss, pine bark, and perlite or sand. They thrive in a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Ensure regular fertilization for optimal growth.
- Repotting
Million Bells should be repotted annually, usually in the spring. They may require more frequent repotting if they outgrow their containers or if the soil becomes compacted.
- Humidity & Misting
Million Bells do well in average humidity levels but do not require high humidity. They are adaptable to the humidity levels typically found in most homes and gardens.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in sunny spot, water regularly, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure good drainage, protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
- Life cycle
The life cycle of Calibrachoa 'Million Bells' begins with seed germination, where the seed requires warm temperatures and light to sprout over the course of a few weeks. Once the seedling emerges, the plant enters the vegetative stage, developing roots, leaves, and stems; it thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. As it matures, the plant transitions to the flowering stage, producing numerous small, bell-shaped pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early autumn. Throughout this stage, consistent watering and fertilization encourage bountiful blooms. After the flowering period, if the conditions are not perennial to the zone, the plant may enter a dormant stage or die if exposed to frost or cold temperatures. For perennial zones or with proper overwintering care, the plant can regenerate for the next growing season, continuing its life cycle.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Calibrachoa Million Bells is through softwood cuttings. This technique is typically most successful in spring to early summer when the plant is in active growth. To propagate by cuttings, choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a segment about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) in length. Strip the lower leaves off and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then insert the cutting into a moistened potting mix or a similar growth medium. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity around the cutting and place it in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. With proper care, roots will usually form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to normal growing conditions.