Introducing...
Campanula
Common name: Bellflower
Ranging from robust summer border plants to more diminutive types for rockeries and containers, these easy-to-grow plants have mainly clear blue or white, pink or purple flowers. Mostly bell-shaped, sometimes they open to be like flat stars. Some campanula have double flowers.
Looks
Campanulas vary in habit from mat-forming, dwarf perennials to tall herbaceous species on stiff or arching stems up to 2m (6ft) in height. They provide a long display of mainly blue to mauve or pale pink and white bell, star or cup-and-saucer shaped flowers
Likes
You can grow campanula in a range of soils and situations, but they prefer moisture retentive free-draining soils (not too wet or not too dry) in sun or part shade.
Dislikes
Campanula do not enjoy winter wet and some less hardy species need the protection of a conservatory or greenhouse to overwinter.
Did you know?
A few campanula make good, long-lasting cut flowers. C. medium commonly known as Canterbury bells is often used. It is a biennial with pink, blue or white bell-shaped flowers.
Love gardening
Sign up to receive regular gardening tips, inspiration, offers and more
View our Privacy Policy
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.