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Campanula (kam-pan-yew-luh); Bellflowers, Bellflower Family (Campanukaceae). A large genus native to Europe and Asia, varieties differ more in plant size and growth characteristics than in color, but the graceful bell-shaped flower occurs in all species. Almost all bellflowers are blue or white, but there are a few pinks in an enormous range of subtle shadings.

C.carpatica (kat-pat-ik-uh) is a hardy, very sturdy perennial 10 to 15 inches high. Long lived and persistent where summers are cool, this species often self-seeds. C.glomerata (glom-er-ray-tuh); Clustered BellFlowers is a hardy perennial, up to 2 feet high, is excellent for a strong accent in the mixed border. C.persicifolia (per-siss-if-foh-lee-uh); Peach-leaved Bellflower, one of the taller bellflowers, is 2 to 3 feet high, each strong stem is hung with one or more lavender-blue or white blossoms, each 2 inches across.

Full Sun to Part Shade. Low-growing clumps of basal foliage spread to form an attractive ground cover. Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil; but grows best in fertile soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. Keep the soil moist but make sure it is well-drained. Campanula will grow in either full sun or partial shade, though some shade is recommended in areas with very hot summers, as it is generally intolerant of the extreme heat. The delicate flower colors are best preserved with some shade. Summer mulch is beneficial and shear plants back to basal growth if foliage is significantly affected by summer heat. Cut plants back after flowering to keep them more compact and help prevent self-seeding. Propagate by seed or division.

Attributes: Border plants, Container, Rock Gardens, mass planting in lightly shaded woodland areas can be left alone to naturalize. Attracts hummingbirds. Deer and rabbit resistant.

PLANTING: Set plants 1 to 2 feet apart, depending on the ultimate size of the species. Plant in fertile, well-drained, but moisture-retentive soil, high in organic matter. Campanula will thrive in sun or partial shade.

MAINTENANCE: A light winter mulch is beneficial. Taller species or cultivars may require staking. A balanced fertilizer, applied each spring, will promote lush growth, and removal of spent flowers will promote additional flower production.

Campanula

Campanula c. 'Rapido Blue' (30)ct Flat

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Campanula

Campanula c. 'Rapido White' (30)ct Flat

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Campanula

Campanula c. 'Rapido Blue' (30)ct Flat

Campanula carpatica 'Rapido Blue' (30)ct FlatRapido SeriesCommon Name: Carpathian Bellflower, Carpathian Harebell One of the earliest blooming C. carpatica types on the market with good vigor and uniformity. 1½-2" cup shaped, violet blue flowers...

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Campanula

Campanula c. 'Rapido White' (30)ct Flat

Campanula carpatica 'Rapido White' (30)ct FlatRapido SeriesCommon Name: Carpathian Bellflower, Carpathian Harebell One of the earliest blooming C. carpatica types on the market with good vigor and uniformity. 1-1½" cup shaped, pure white flowers...

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What Is Campanula?

Campanula, also commonly known as bellflower, is a genus of flowering plants in the Campanulaceae family. It is the type genus of the family and includes around three hundred species. The name Campanula comes from the Latin word for "little bell," which aptly describes the shape of the flowers.

Bellflowers are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, but they have been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. They are typically found in meadows, woodlands, and rocky areas.

Bellflowers come in a wide variety of sizes, from just a few inches tall to several feet tall. They also come in a wide variety of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. The flowers are typically bell-shaped, but they can also be star-shaped or funnel-shaped.

Bellflowers are a popular choice for gardens because they are easy to grow and care for. They are also deer-resistant, which makes them a good choice for gardeners who have problems with deer.

Bellflowers can be propagated by seed or by division. If you are propagating by seed, sow the seeds indoors in early spring. Once the seedlings have emerged, transplant them outdoors to a sunny location. If you are propagating by division, divide the plants in the spring or fall.

Bellflowers are relatively pest- and disease-free. However, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in hot, humid weather. If you see signs of powdery mildew on your bellflowers, you can treat them with a fungicide.

With their beautiful flowers and easy care, bellflowers are a great addition to any garden.

How Do I Plant Campanula?

Planting campanula (bellflower) depends on whether you are using seeds or transplants, but here is a general guide for both:

Choosing the right time:

Seeds: Sow seeds indoors in early spring, around 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. You can also directly sow outdoors in late spring or early summer after the danger of frost has passed.

Transplants: Plant transplants outdoors in late spring or early summer, after the danger of frost has passed.

Location and soil:

Light: Most campanula varieties prefer full sun to light shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade might be beneficial.

Soil: Choose well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6 to 8. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting to improve drainage and fertility.

Planting steps:

For seeds:

Prepare a shallow container or seed tray with a well-draining potting mix.

Scatter the seeds thinly on the surface of the soil and barely cover them with a fine layer of vermiculite or growing media.

Water gently from the bottom or mist lightly to avoid displacing the seeds.

Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place the container in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight.

Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out if necessary to allow proper spacing.

Harden off the seedlings gradually before transplanting them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

For transplants:

Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the transplant.

Gently remove the transplant from its pot and loosen the roots slightly if needed.

Place the transplant in the hole and fill it back with soil, firming it gently around the base of the plant.

Water the transplant thoroughly.

Aftercare:

Water your campanula regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Cut back the stems in late fall or early spring to remove dead or diseased foliage.

Mulch around the base of the plants in winter to protect them from the cold.

Additional tips:

Some campanula varieties are short-lived perennials, while others are biennials or annuals. Check the specific requirements of the variety you are planting.

Taller varieties of campanula may benefit from staking to prevent them from flopping over.

Campanula are generally deer-resistant, making them a good choice for gardens frequented by these animals.

By following these tips, you can successfully plant and care for campanula and enjoy their beautiful bell-shaped flowers in your garden for years to come.

What Are The Different Varieties Of Campanula?

The world of campanula (bellflowers) boasts a delightful variety, offering something for every gardener's preference. Here is a glimpse into some popular types:

By Height:

Tall (up to four feet):

Campanula pyramidalis (Chimney Bellflower): Showy, stately spikes of blue or white flowers.

Campanula persicifolia (Peach-leaved Bellflower): Elegant, upright stems with blue or white bell-shaped flowers.

Campanula lactiflora (Milky Bellflower): Tall and airy with clusters of white or blue flowers.

Medium (up to two feet):

Campanula glomerata (Clustered Bellflower): Clump-forming with masses of blue or purple flowers in clusters.

Campanula carpatica (Carpathian Bellflower): Compact and bushy with star-shaped blue or white flowers.

Campanula medium (Canterbury Bells): Biennial or short-lived perennial with cup-and-saucer shaped flowers in various colors.

Short (under one foot):

Campanula portenschlagiana (Dalmatian Bellflower): Spreading groundcover with star-shaped blue or violet flowers.

Campanula poscharskyana (Serbian Bellflower): Creeping habit with star-shaped blue or white flowers.

Campanula rotundifolia (Harebell): Delicate and dainty with small blue bell-shaped flowers.

By Color:

Blue: C. glomerata, C. carpatica, C. persicifolia, C. pyramidalis, C. portenschlagiana, C. poscharskyana, C. rotundifolia

White: C. lactiflora, C. carpatica, C. persicifolia

Purple: C. glomerata, C. pyramidalis

Pink: C. persicifolia

By Spread:

Clump-forming: C. glomerata, C. carpatica, C. lactiflora, C. persicifolia

Spreading: C. portenschlagiana, C. poscharskyana

Beyond these, here are some interesting varieties:

Campanula punctata (Spotted Bellflower): Unique speckled flowers but can be aggressive.

Campanula takesimana (Korean Bellflower): Large, cup-shaped flowers, but short-lived.

Campanula trachelium (Nettle-leaved Bellflower): Architectural foliage and white or blue flowers.

Remember, this is just a taste of the diverse campanula family. With its wide range of sizes, colors, and growth habits, there is sure to be a perfect bellflower to grace your garden.

How Do I Care For Campanula In My Garden?

Caring for your campanula (bellflower) in your garden is relatively easy, but here are some key points to remember:

Lighting and Soil:

Light: Most campanula varieties prefer full sun to light shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade might be beneficial to prevent scorching.

Soil: They thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6 to 8. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting to improve drainage and fertility.

Watering and Feeding:

Watering: Water your campanula regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Opt for a balanced formula like 10-10-10 or one specifically formulated for flowering plants.

Deadheading and Pruning:

Deadheading: Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms throughout the season. Simply pinch off the wilted flowers just below the base.

Pruning: In late fall or early spring, cut back the stems to remove dead or diseased foliage. This will also encourage new growth in the spring.

Winter Care:

Mulching: In colder climates, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants in late fall to protect them from the cold. Use organic materials like straw, leaves, or compost.

Watering: Reduce watering in the fall and winter, but do not let the soil completely dry out.

Additional Tips:

Staking: Taller varieties of campanula may benefit from staking to prevent them from flopping over, especially during heavy rains or wind.

Propagation: You can propagate campanula by seeds or division. For seeds, follow the instructions mentioned earlier. For division, carefully divide the clumps in spring or fall.

Pests and Diseases: Campanula are generally pest- and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew in hot, humid weather. If you see signs of powdery mildew, treat them with a fungicide.

Variety Specific Needs: Remember that different campanula varieties might have slightly different needs. Research the specific variety you have for tailored care instructions.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your campanula thrives and brings its charming bell-shaped flowers to your garden for many seasons to come.

Do Campanula Plants Attract Pollinators?

Yes, campanula plants are known for attracting pollinators! Their sweet nectar and colorful blooms make them a delightful haven for various beneficial insects, including:

Bees: Bumblebees, honeybees, and solitary bees are frequent visitors, drawn to the easily accessible nectar within the bell-shaped flowers.

Butterflies: Many butterfly species, like swallowtails and fritillaries, find the campanula's colors and nectar irresistible.

Hummingbirds: Some hummingbird-attracting varieties, like Campanula elatinoides, feature tubular flowers and red coloration that appeal to these feathered pollinators.

Other pollinators: Hoverflies, flies, and even moths can benefit from the nectar and pollen offered by campanula plants.

Here are some specific characteristics of campanula that contribute to their pollinator appeal:

Flower shape: The bell-shaped blooms provide a protective environment for the nectar and pollen, making them easily accessible to smaller pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Nectar: Campanula produces sweet nectar that serves as a valuable food source for pollinators.

Pollen: The pollen grains are sticky and well-suited for adhering to pollinators, facilitating pollen transfer between flowers.

Color: Many campanula varieties boast vibrant colors like blue, purple, and white, which are known to attract pollinators.

Bloom time: Depending on the variety, campanula can flower for extended periods throughout the summer and early fall, providing a reliable source of food for pollinators during this crucial time.

Planting campanula in your garden can not only add beauty and charm, but also contribute to the health and diversity of your local pollinator population. By providing them with essential food and habitat, you will be playing a vital role in supporting the ecological balance of your garden and beyond.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Campanula?

While generally considered low-maintenance and pest-resistant, campanula plants can still encounter some common issues. Here are some pests and diseases to watch out for:

Pests:

Aphids: These tiny, soft-bodied insects suck sap from leaves and stems, causing stunting and yellowing. You might see them clustered on the undersides of leaves.

Spider mites: These tiny arachnids also feed on plant sap, leaving behind webbing and causing stippling on leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions.

Thrips: These slender insects feed on flower buds and petals, causing them to become distorted and discolored.

Slugs and snails: These slimy creatures munch on leaves and flowers, leaving behind a glistening trail. They are more active in moist conditions.

Diseases:

Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on leaves, stunting growth and reducing flower production. It thrives in humid conditions.

Botrytis (gray mold): This fungal disease causes gray, fuzzy mold to grow on flowers, buds, and leaves, especially in wet weather.

Root rot: This fungal disease damages the roots, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. It often occurs due to overwatering or poorly drained soil.

Leaf spot diseases: Various fungal and bacterial pathogens can cause brown or yellow spots to appear on leaves, sometimes leading to defoliation.

Prevention and Control:

Promote good air circulation: This helps prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis. Avoid overcrowding plants and prune for good airflow.

Water correctly: Avoid overwatering, especially in heavy soil, as this can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead.

Choose resistant varieties: Some campanula varieties are more resistant to specific pests and diseases.

Encourage beneficial insects: Ladybugs, lacewings, and other beneficial insects can help control pest populations naturally.

Handpick pests: If you see a few aphids or other insects, you can remove them by hand or with a blast of water.

Use insecticidal soap or neem oil: These organic options can be effective against aphids, spider mites, and thrips.

Apply fungicides: If you see signs of fungal diseases, use a fungicide labeled for use on campanula. Follow the instructions carefully.

Remove diseased plant parts: Prune and remove affected leaves, flowers, or stems to prevent the spread of diseases. Dispose of them properly, not in your compost pile.

By implementing these preventative measures and taking prompt action when problems arise, you can help your campanula plants stay healthy and vibrant throughout the season.

Can I Use Campanula In Floral Arrangements?

Absolutely! Campanula, also known as bellflower, is a beautiful and versatile flower that can be used in a variety of floral arrangements. Their delicate bell-shaped blooms and soft colors add a touch of charm and elegance to any bouquet or centerpiece.

Here are some reasons why campanula is a great choice for floral arrangements:

Variety of colors: Campanula comes in a wide range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. This allows you to create arrangements that match any color scheme.

Long vase life: Campanula typically has a long vase life, so you can enjoy your arrangements for several days.

Easy to care for: Campanula is relatively easy to care for in a vase. Simply cut the stems at an angle and place them in clean water with a floral preservative.

Adds texture and interest: The bell-shaped flowers of campanula add texture and interest to arrangements. They can be used as filler flowers or as the focal point of an arrangement.

Combinations: Campanula can be combined with a variety of other flowers, such as roses, lilies, hydrangeas, and sunflowers.

Here are some tips for using campanula in floral arrangements:

Choose blooms at different stages of maturity: Some blooms can be fully open, while others can be just starting to open. This will give your arrangement more visual interest.

Group campanula by color: Grouping campanula by color can create a more cohesive look.

Use campanula as filler: Campanula is a great filler flower. It can be used to fill in gaps in an arrangement and add texture.

Let the campanula be the star: Campanula can also be used as the focal point of an arrangement. Simply group several stems together in a vase.

Experiment: Do not be afraid to experiment with different colors and combinations of flowers. Campanula is a versatile flower that can be used in a variety of ways.

With its beautiful blooms and long vase life, campanula is a great choice for any floral arrangement. So next time you are looking for a flower to add a touch of charm and elegance to your arrangements, be sure to consider campanula.

Is Campanula Invasive?

Yes, some species of Campanula are considered invasive in certain regions. The most widely recognized invasive species is Campanula rapunculoides, commonly known as creeping bellflower.

Here is what you need to know about the invasiveness of Campanula:

Invasive Campanula:

Creeping bellflower (Campanula rapunculoides): This species is native to Europe and temperate Asia, but it has escaped cultivation and become invasive in North America, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. It spreads aggressively through both seeds and rhizomes, displacing native plants and disrupting ecosystems.

Characteristics: Creeping bellflower has violet-blue, bell-shaped flowers that alternate up one side of the tall flower stalk. It can grow up to three feet tall and forms dense mats that crowd out other plants.

Non-invasive Campanula:

Many other species of Campanula are not invasive and can be safely planted in gardens.

Examples of non-invasive species include:

Clustered bellflower (Campanula glomerata)

Carpathian bellflower (Campanula carpatica)

Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia)

Canterbury bells (Campanula medium)

Before planting any Campanula species, it is important to research whether it is considered invasive in your region. You can consult with your local gardening experts or extension office for guidance.

Here are some additional resources to help you identify invasive Campanula:

Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States: https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/

USDA PLANTS Database: https://plants.usda.gov/

By choosing non-invasive Campanula species for your garden, you can help protect native plants and ecosystems while enjoying the beauty of these charming flowers.

When Is The Best Time To Divide Campanula Plants?

The best time to divide campanula plants depends on the specific species, but there are two main options:

Spring:

This is the preferred time for most campanula varieties, including:

Carpathian Harebell (Campanula carpatica)

Peach-leaved Bellflower (Campanula persicifolia)

Clustered Bellflower (Campanula glomerata)

Canterbury Bells (Campanula medium)

Dividing in spring allows the plants to establish themselves before the hot summer months and produce flowers in the same year.

Ideal timing in spring is just as new growth appears, typically around March or April, after the danger of frost has passed.

Fall:

Some campanula varieties can also be divided in early fall, around September or October, before the first frost.

This is a good option for varieties that bloom later in the summer, as it allows them to recover before winter.

However, dividing in fall might delay flowering the following year.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when dividing campanula plants:

Choose healthy, established plants: Plants that are at least 2-3 years old and have been growing well are best for division.

Water the plants thoroughly before dividing: This will make the soil easier to work with and reduce stress on the plants.

Use a sharp knife or spade: Carefully dig up the entire plant and divide it into sections, each with at least a few healthy shoots and roots.

Replant the divisions immediately: Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to light shade. Water the plants well after planting.

By following these tips, you can successfully divide your campanula plants and enjoy their beautiful blooms for many years to come.

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Campanula c. 'Rapido Blue' (30)ct Flat

Campanula

Campanula c. 'Rapido White' (30)ct Flat

Campanula

Campanula c. 'Rapido Blue' (30)ct Flat

Campanula

Campanula c. 'Rapido White' (30)ct Flat