annual

Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells

Calibrachoa x hybrida 'Blackcurrant Punch'

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial, typically grown as an annual, with a mounding to trailing habit. Features prolific, small, petunia-like flowers and small, ovate, green leaves. Valued for its long bloom season and use in containers, hanging baskets, and as a bedding plant.

Features abundant, velvety, deep purple-red flowers, each with a prominent dark, near-black throat. This striking color combination provides high contrast. The plant is self-cleaning, meaning no deadheading is required.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright purple flowers add lively color to containers and hanging baskets, attracting attention and enhancing visual appeal.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant and easy to care for, ideal for busy gardeners.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts beneficial insects, supporting local pollinator populations.
SpeciesCalibrachoa x hybridaMillion Bells

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

8 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil.
  2. Mist regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Place in full sun for best flowering results.
  4. Fertilize every 2–3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
  5. Pinch back to promote bushier growth after flowering begins.
  6. Maintain consistent watering during hot summer months.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage and full sun for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly, especially in hot weather 🌱
  • Pinch back to encourage bushiness
  • Feed with balanced fertilizer monthly
  • Deadhead spent blooms for continuous flowering

Don't

  • Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
  • Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
  • Use heavy, clay-rich soil without drainage

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant hanging basketColorful container displayBorder edging with purple accents

Companion Plants

Petunias VerbenaLobeliaSweet Potato Vine Caladium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells questions

What zones can Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells grow in?

Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells deer resistant?

Yes — Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells bloom?

Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells need full sun?

Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Blackcurrant Punch Million Bells with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.