Some gardeners also sell the magic bell as a “dwarf petunia”, although “Calibrachoa” is its own genus of plants. This is not only related to the petunias, but also has a visual similarity that cannot be denied.
What are the differences between magic bells and petunias?
The magic bell (Calibrachoa) is similar to the petunia in flower shape and appearance, but is a separate plant genus. Both are sensitive to frost, grow quickly and are available in different colors. However, magic bells are less sensitive to moisture and require less care than petunias.
Similarity between the magic bell and the petunia
The magic bell not only has a similar flower shape to the petunia, the rest of the plant also has a very similar look. Like the petunia, the magic bell is also quite sensitive to frost and therefore cannot be overwintered outdoors. Both types of plants are characterized by a large number of flowers and, when provided with sufficient water and nutrients, by relatively rapid growth. In addition, petunias and magic bells are available commercially in a wide variety of colors, which can be arranged in a contrasting manner in the balcony box.
Advantages of magic bells over petunias
The petunia flowers tend to stick together during prolonged periods of rain and must be removed quickly when they have faded so as not to seriously disturb the overall impression. With the magic bells, on the other hand, isolated wilted flowers do not disturb the overall appearance so much, as they dry down to a small size and are soon overgrown by new flowers. In addition, the flowers of the magic bell are less sensitive to moisture and only open during the day and when the weather is nice.
Magic bells and petunias as neighbors
Magic bells need certain basic requirements in order to be able to pour their flowers, also known as “millionbells”, over a balcony railing or a plant trough. So pay attention to your magic bells:
- a slightly acidic, low-lime plant substrate
- the use of rainwater (because it is low in lime) when watering
- a weekly fertilization with petunia fertilizer
- high humidity when growing magic bells from seeds
A particularly pretty picture is created in the balcony box if you combine the magic bells with petunias and verbena. Strong-growing “Supercal” varieties (a cross between petunia and magic bells) produce medium-sized flowers and are well suited for decorative underplanting of standard trees.
Tip
You can harvest the seeds from the magic bell as soon as the seed capsules have changed color from green to brown. Please note, however, that this species usually involves crossbreeding and you will not receive true-to-variety young plants. So you can sometimes experience interesting surprises in terms of flower color after raising the next generation of magic bells.
