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Campanulaceae

Bellflower

Campanula

Gratitude, constancy, everlasting love, humility.

Family
Campanulaceae
Genus
Campanula
Native to
Northern Hemisphere temperate regions
Bloom season
Late Spring, Summer
Type
annual, biennial, or perennial
Height
10–180 cm
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Well-drained, rich
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
3–9
Lifespan
Varies

Did you know

  • The genus name 'Campanula' comes from Latin meaning 'little bell,' and there are around 500 species in the genus.
  • Canterbury bells (Campanula medium) were named because they resembled the bells on the harnesses of horses ridden by pilgrims to Canterbury in medieval England.
  • The peach-leaved bellflower (Campanula persicifolia) was a favorite in cottage gardens for centuries and is still one of the most popular hardy perennials.
  • Campanula rapunculus (rampion bellflower) is the plant Rapunzel was named after in the Brothers Grimm fairy tale — both the leaves and roots are edible.
  • Many bellflower species can become invasive — Campanula rapunculoides is notorious for taking over gardens via creeping roots.

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Edible (some species)
  • Cottage gardens