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Rampion Bellflower

Campanula rapunculus

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Asterales
Family:
Campanulaceae (Bellflower)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
1 metre tall
Habitats:
Fields, grassland, hedgerows, roadsides, rocky places, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Blue, 5 petals
 
The flowers are arranged in a one-sided spike. They are pale blue and bell-shaped, about 2cm long.
Fruit:
The fruit is a capsule which splits open to release its seeds. The seeds ripen in August and September.
Leaves:
Slightly toothed, oval basal leaves. The upper leaves are stalkless and narrowly lance-shaped. Biennial.
Other Names:
Rampion, Ramps, Rapunzel, Rover Bellflower.
Frequency (UK):
Unusual  

Other Information

Summary

Campanula rapunculus, also known as rampion bellflower or rampion, is a species of flowering plant in the family Campanulaceae. It is native to Europe and is commonly found growing in grasslands, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant has slender stems with small, green leaves and clusters of small, blue or purple flowers. It is a popular garden plant and is known for its attractive flowers and ability to tolerate a range of growing conditions. There is not much information available about the potential medicinal use of Campanula rapunculus.

Blog

The Rampion Bellflower, also known as Campanula rapunculus, is a beautiful and versatile plant that has been a popular choice for gardens and landscapes for centuries.

This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is known for its delicate blue or purple flowers that bloom on tall spikes. The bell-shaped flowers are arranged in clusters and can grow up to six inches long. The foliage is a soft green and is attractive in its own right, making the Rampion Bellflower an ideal choice for adding texture and interest to any garden.

In terms of care, the Rampion Bellflower is easy to grow and maintain. It is tolerant of a range of soils and does well in both full sun and partial shade. This plant is also drought-resistant and is able to survive in areas with low rainfall. Additionally, it is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -15°C, making it an ideal choice for gardens in colder climates.

This versatile plant can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. It is an excellent choice for borders and rock gardens, and can also be used as a ground cover or to fill in empty spaces. It is a popular choice for cut flowers and makes a beautiful addition to any bouquet.

In terms of companion plants, the Rampion Bellflower pairs well with other sun-loving plants such as lavender, rosemary, and salvia. It is also a great choice for creating a cottage garden feel, especially when combined with other traditional cottage garden favorites such as roses, foxgloves, and poppies.

Overall, the Rampion Bellflower is a beautiful, low-maintenance, and versatile plant that is sure to add interest and charm to any garden. Whether you're looking for a hardy ground cover, a statement plant for your border, or a cut flower for your vase, this charming plant is sure to deliver.

The Rampion Bellflower is not just a pretty face, it is also a plant with a rich history and cultural significance. For example, in folklore, the Rampion Bellflower is known as the “Rapunzel” plant, after the fairy tale of the same name. In the story, Rapunzel’s mother longs for rampion to eat, and when the prince tries to steal it for her, the sorceress who guards the plant imprisons Rapunzel in a tower.

In addition to its cultural significance, the Rampion Bellflower is also an important plant for wildlife. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to any wildlife garden. The seeds of the plant are also a valuable food source for birds, and the foliage provides cover and nesting sites.

The Rampion Bellflower is also valued for its medicinal properties. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, respiratory issues, and skin conditions. The plant’s roots and leaves contain compounds that have been shown to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.

In addition to its ornamental and cultural value, the Rampion Bellflower is also a valuable crop. The leaves and roots of the plant are edible and are often used in traditional cuisine. For example, in some Mediterranean countries, the leaves are used as a salad green and the roots are roasted or boiled and served as a side dish.

The Rampion Bellflower is also a valuable crop for medicinal purposes. The roots and leaves contain compounds that are used in the production of herbal remedies and natural cosmetics. For example, the plant’s roots have been used in the production of remedies for digestive problems, respiratory issues, and skin conditions, and the leaves have been used to make natural cosmetics and skin care products.

If you are interested in growing Rampion Bellflower in your garden, it is important to choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. The plant is tolerant of a wide range of soils, but prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It is also important to water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods, and to provide it with adequate nutrients through regular fertilization.

In conclusion, the Rampion Bellflower is a beautiful, versatile, and valuable plant that is sure to add interest and charm to any garden. With its rich history and cultural significance, its value as a source of food and habitat for wildlife, its medicinal properties, and its use as a crop, the Rampion Bellflower is a plant that truly has it all. Whether you are looking for a hardy ground cover, a statement plant for your border, or a valuable crop, the Rampion Bellflower is an excellent choice.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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