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Spreading Bellflower

Campanula patula

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.
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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:
Annual or Perennial
Maximum Size:
60 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Grassland, hedgerows, rocky places, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Purple, 5 petals
 
Small clusters of bell-shaped or star-shaped, violet-blue flowers. White flowers are rare. 5 stamens.
Fruit:
The fruit is an erect, strongly veined capsule.
Leaves:
The rough basal leaves are bluntly lance-shaped and short-stalked. The stalkless stem leaves alternate along the stems on both sides. The stem leaves are linear. Biennial.
Other Names:
Spreading Campanula.
Frequency (UK):
Unusual  

Similar Species

Other Information

Summary

Campanula patula, also known as spreading bellflower or spreading campanula, is a species of flowering plant in the family Campanulaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found growing in grasslands, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant has slender, spreading 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 patula.

Blog

Spreading Bellflower: Campanula patula

The Spreading Bellflower, also known as Campanula patula, is a beautiful and hardy perennial plant that adds color and charm to any garden. This plant is native to Europe and Asia and is popular for its charming, star-shaped blue or purple flowers.

Key Features:

  • Flowers: The flowers of the Spreading Bellflower are blue or purple and are star-shaped. They grow in clusters on tall stems and are about 1-2 inches in diameter.
  • Leaves: The leaves of the Spreading Bellflower are long and narrow and grow in a basal rosette. They are green and slightly hairy.
  • Growth: The Spreading Bellflower grows in clumps and spreads slowly over time. It can reach a height of up to 18 inches and a spread of 12 inches.
  • Hardiness: This plant is hardy and can survive in a wide range of temperatures. It is also resistant to deer and rabbits.

Caring for Spreading Bellflower:

  • Light: The Spreading Bellflower prefers full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil: This plant thrives in well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
  • Water: Water the Spreading Bellflower regularly, especially during dry spells. Do not let the soil dry out completely.
  • Fertilizer: Fertilize the Spreading Bellflower in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Pruning: Prune the Spreading Bellflower after it has finished blooming to keep it looking neat and tidy.

Propagation:

  • Seeds: You can propagate the Spreading Bellflower from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring and cover with a light layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and keep the seeds in a warm place until they have germinated.
  • Cuttings: You can also propagate the Spreading Bellflower from cuttings. Cut a stem with a few leaves and root it in water or moist soil.

The Spreading Bellflower is a charming and easy-to-grow plant that adds color and beauty to any garden. Whether grown in a border or as a groundcover, this plant is sure to impress with its beautiful blue or purple flowers and lush green leaves.

In addition to its beautiful appearance, the Spreading Bellflower also attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden, making it a great choice for those interested in wildlife gardening. The plant produces a profusion of nectar-rich flowers that provide an important source of food for these important creatures.

Spreading Bellflower is also an excellent choice for rock gardens, as it can tolerate poor soil conditions and thrives in well-drained rock crevices. It also makes a great addition to wildflower meadows and cottage gardens. The plant is low maintenance, requiring very little care and attention, making it ideal for gardeners of all levels of experience.

If you're looking to add some color and interest to your garden, consider planting the Spreading Bellflower. With its attractive blue or purple flowers, attractive green foliage, and ease of care, this beautiful plant is sure to bring a touch of charm and beauty to your outdoor space.

In terms of companion plants, Spreading Bellflower pairs well with other perennials such as phlox, daisies, and lavender. These plants provide complementary colors and textures and can create a stunning display in the garden. Additionally, Spreading Bellflower is often used in mixed borders and rock gardens, where it can provide a tapestry of color and texture throughout the growing season.

It's important to note that the Spreading Bellflower can be invasive in some areas. To prevent this, it's best to plant them in containers or to remove any spent flowers and seeds to prevent self-seeding. In climates where the plant is hardy, it's best to plant it in an area of the garden that receives full sun to partial shade, as it will flower better and be more vigorous in these conditions.

Overall, Spreading Bellflower is a versatile, low-maintenance plant that provides a long-lasting display of beautiful blue or purple flowers in the garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this plant is a great choice for adding color and beauty to your outdoor space.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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