Calibrachoa ‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’: A Star in the Garden

‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’ is a vibrant cultivar of Calibrachoa characterized by its large, brightly colored raspberry blooms with a striking yellow star pattern. The flowers are trumpet-shaped, providing a visual feast from late spring to early fall. The plant has a semi-trailing habit, making it perfect for hanging baskets and container gardens where it can cascade over the edges. The foliage is small, and pointy, and remains green throughout the growing season, creating a lush backdrop for the vivid flowers. The plant typically reaches a height of 8-12 inches and spreads 12-15 inches, with a dense growth habit that remains tidy without the need for deadheading, as it is self-cleaning.

Calibrachoa, commonly known as Million Bells or Mini Petunias, belongs to the Solanaceae family, which also includes plants like tomatoes and potatoes. Native to South America, these plants are prized for their profusion of small, petunia-like flowers and their vigorous trailing habit. Named by Vicente Cervantes after Antonio de la Cal y Bracho, a 19th-century Mexican botanist, Calibrachoa species inhabit a range of environments from southern Brazil to Peru and Chile.

Care Instructions for Calibrachoa ‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’:

Caring for ‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’ is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are the key care guidelines:

Light Requirements: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the best flowering, provide at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Watering: Maintain evenly moist soil conditions. While it tolerates some drought, avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Ensure good drainage to prevent standing water, which can lead to root rot.
Soil: Calibrachoa prefers average to well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It is adaptable to various soil types but performs best in rich, fertile soil.
Fertilization: Feed weekly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to support continuous blooming. Early in the growing season, a general-purpose fertilizer will help establish the plant.
Pruning: While ‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’ does not require deadheading, trimming spent blooms can encourage more vigorous flowering. Occasional light pruning helps maintain the desired shape and fullness.
Pest and Disease Management: Calibrachoa is relatively pest-resistant but can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for control. Ensure proper air circulation to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.

Propagation

Propagation of ‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’ is typically done through tip cuttings. Here’s a brief guide on how to propagate it:

Take Cuttings: Select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut 4-6 inch sections just below a leaf node.
Prepare Cuttings: Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top.
Rooting Medium: Place the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix or a rooting medium like perlite or vermiculite.
Conditions: Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Maintain high humidity by covering the cuttings with a plastic dome or placing them in a propagator.
Watering: Keep the rooting medium moist but not soggy. Roots should develop in a few weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.

Landscape Uses

Calibrachoa ‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’ is versatile in the garden and can be used in various landscape applications:

Hanging Baskets: Its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets, where it can spill gracefully over the edges.
Container Planting: Use as a ‘spiller’ in mixed containers for a dynamic display.
Mass Planting and Border Edging: Plant en masse for a stunning ground cover or as a border edging to define garden spaces.
Attracting Pollinators: This plant is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden, it is heat-tolerant.

Conclusion

Calibrachoa ‘MiniFamous® Neo Pink Hawaii’ is a dazzling addition to any garden, container, or hanging basket. With its vibrant, star-patterned blooms, easy care requirements, and adaptability to various light conditions, it provides continuous color from spring until frost. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this cultivar will bring charm and vibrancy to your outdoor space.