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Herbaceous Perennial

Campanula trachelium
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

nettle-leaved bellflower

A robust perennial with nettle-like, deeply toothed leaves and erect, leafy stems bearing a raceme of bell-shaped lavender-blue flowers 3cm long in summer

Other common names
blue devil bellflower
blue devils
see moreblue foxglove
Coventry bellflower
cover-keys
gloves of Mary
great throat root
great throatwort
throatwort
clychlys danadl
Synonyms
Campanula urticifolia
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Blue Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Campanulaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Campanula may be annuals, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, with bell or star-shaped, often blue, flowers in late spring or summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe, N Africa & Sib.

How to grow

Cultivation

Any fertile, well-drained soil in sun or part shade. The flower colour is best in shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in spring. Divide in spring or autumn. Take stem-tip cuttings from new growth after flowering

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning

Cut back after flowering to prevent seeding and to encourage a second flush of flower

Pests

Vulnerable to slugs and snails

Diseases

Powdery mildew and rust may be problematic

Get involved

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