Mini Petunia Calibrachoa x hybrida

Calibrachoa x hybrida, or Trailing petunia, is a tender perennial, usually grown as an annual, that has been known to survive the winter in USDA Zone 7, but is more commonly winter hardy in Zones 9 through 11. The plant grows best in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun. It can grow in partial shade but flowering will be reduced. The plant also tolerates drought and, unlike most other petunia-type plants, Calibrachoa does not decline during hot summers.  It does require a slow-release fertilizer incorporated into the soil and a diluted liquid fertilizer every few weeks throughout the blooming season.

When grown as an annual, you should purchase plants in spring to set out after the last frost. If you attempt to grow in the garden as a perennial, be aware that Calibrachoa produces very few seeds and must be vegetatively propagated. Catch-22 is that most hybrid cultivars are patented, which prohibits vegetative propagation.

The plant has a prostrate, low-growing, habit and can reach a height of 6 to 9 inches, but spread horizontally as much as 2 feet. It produces masses of small, petunia-like flowers in cherry, red, rose, violet, blue, or yellow through the summer until frost. You do not need to deadhead flowers to encourage blooms. 

Plant in a boarder front, along a walkway or near a patio, in containers or hanging baskets.  If grown in a container it prefers fast-draining soil that is well amended with organic matter.  Many container-grown plants are root-bound so consider repotting immediately.  Water containers regularly but only after the top inch or two of soil is dry.  

Deer do not seem particularly interested in browsing though these plants are not classified as deer resistant.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.  Spider mites and aphids are occasional problems.  Overwatering can cause root rot or mold.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.