Friday, September 30, 2011

Tussock Bellfower, Perennial of the Day

Campanula carpatica 'Blue Clips'
    Tussock Bellfower,  Carpathian Bellflower,  Carpathian Harebell

Type    Perennial
Hardy range    3B to 8B
Height    6" to 9" / 15cm to 23cm
Spread    10" to 12" / 25cm to 30cm
Growth rate    Slow
Form    Spreading or horizontal
Exposure    Partial shade or partial sun to full sun

Environment
This plant will grow in moist soil.
Suitable soil is well-drained/loamy or sandy.
The pH preference is a neutral to slightly alkaline (6.8 to 7.7) soil.

Bloom Color    Blue
Bloom Time    Summer and Fall

The flowers are showy and suitable for cut flowers.

Leaf Color    Green
This plant has attractive foliage.

Culture Notes
Campanula will not do well in dry or wet soils or if humidity is high.  As long as there is adequate drainage, this herbaceous plant will easily spread to show off its numerous bell-shaped flowers.  It's a good idea to remove spent flower heads for continuous blooming.  Shear lightly after blooming.  In the fall OR spring, cut to basal foliage; cut in the fall if foliage is poor - this will improve the plant's appearance.