Campanula medium

Canterbury Bell, Cup And Saucer
Campanulaceae (Lobeliaceae)
Annuals, Flowers

CAMPANULA

Vast and varied group (about 300 species) encompassing trailers, creeping or tufted miniature perennials, and erect kinds 1 to 6 ft. high or taller. Usually, flower stalks rise above basal leaf rosettes; basal leaves often differ from stem leaves. The perennial species tend to spread indefinitely from the root; width depends mainly on vigor of their rootstocks and time they have been in one spot. Flowers are generally bell shaped, though some are star shaped, cupped, or round and flat. Bloom comes at some time from spring to fall, depending on species. Most species are grown fairly easily from seeds sown in spring or early summer.

Campanula medium

Sturdy, hairy, leafy, with erect stems 2 1/2–4 ft. tall, 1 ft. wide. Lance-shaped, wavy-edged basal leaves 6–10 in. long; stem leaves smaller (3–5 in.). Bell shaped or urn shaped, 1–2 in. flowers are single or double, held upright in long, loose, open clusters. Purple, violet, blue, lavender, pink, or white, depending on variety. Late spring or early summer blooming.

Sow seed in late spring for bloom following year, or set out nursery plants 15–18 in. apart. Good for cutting.