Calibrachoa Cabaret® ‘Red’ Brings Bold Color to Hanging Baskets
Calibrachoa Cabaret® ‘Red’ is a dazzling performer in the spring and summer garden. This compact, trailing beauty produces non-stop red blooms that spill elegantly over containers, hanging baskets, and sunny garden borders. With a mounded, spreading habit and vibrant color, it brings intense visual appeal without demanding much care. Belonging to the Solanaceae family—the same as petunias and tomatoes—Calibrachoa hybrids like ‘Cabaret Red’ are celebrated for their resilience and flowering power.
The Color and Form
Bold red flowers bloom in such abundance that they nearly hide the foliage at peak season. Calibrachoa Cabaret® ‘Red’reaches 15 to 25 cm (6 to 10 inches) in height and spreads 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 inches). Its lush green leaves create a soft backdrop that highlights the vivid blooms. This variety cleans itself by dropping spent flowers, so you won’t need to deadhead—an ideal trait for low-maintenance gardens.
How to Grow Calibrachoa Cabaret® ‘Red’
Light
Calibrachoa thrives in full sun, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of direct light per day. In hotter regions, partial afternoon shade can help prevent stress. If the plant appears leggy or lacks color intensity, consider moving it to a sunnier spot.
Soil
Well-drained soil is essential. These plants prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 6.5). A high-quality potting mix with perlite or bark ensures proper drainage in containers. Avoid waterlogged conditions at all costs, as root rot can quickly develop.
Watering
While Calibrachoa likes consistent moisture, it dislikes soggy roots. Water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry to the touch. In summer, container-grown plants may need daily watering, especially in hot climates.
Fertilizing
These are heavy feeders. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time, then supplement with a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. Yellowing leaves often signal a nitrogen deficiency, so regular feeding is essential for lush foliage and strong blooming.
Pruning
While deadheading isn’t required, you can pinch or trim back stems by about 20% mid-season to encourage branching and a bushier form. This also helps rejuvenate tired-looking plants and stimulates new blooms.
Propagation
Calibrachoa can be propagated from cuttings, typically in summer. Choose a non-flowering stem, remove lower leaves, and root it in water or a sterile rooting medium. Once roots appear, transplant the cutting into fresh soil and keep it moist until established.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for aphids, petunia budworms, and spider mites. A hard spray of water or neem oil usually handles aphids. Budworms may require treatment with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if infestations are severe. Powdery mildew may show up in late summer, especially in humid conditions. Ensuring good airflow and spacing can reduce risk.
Root rot is the most common non-insect issue, generally caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Avoid heavy soils and don’t let containers sit in saucers of water.
Where to Plant Calibrachoa Cabaret® ‘Red’
This variety is ideal for container combinations, window boxes, and hanging baskets where it can cascade attractively over the edges. It also works beautifully as a border plant or a ground cover in raised beds or rock gardens. In landscape beds, place it at the front where its small stature (15 to 25 cm tall) won’t get lost behind taller companions. Its spreading growth can fill in gaps up to 60 cm (24 inches) across.
Pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds are naturally drawn to its bright color, making it a smart pick for pollinator-friendly gardens. Though most gardeners treat Calibrachoa as an annual, it is a tender perennial in USDA zones 9 through 11 and may overwinter in mild climates.
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