Campanula rapunculoides aka Creeping Bellflower

Taxonomy

Campanula rapunculoides, also known as creeping bellflower rampion bellflower, rover bellflower, garden bluebell, creeping bluebell, purple bell, garden harebell, and creeping campanula, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial plant. Native to central and southern Europe and west Asia, it is a member of the Campanulaceae family. While it provides a long flowering display in summer with its outward facing, white, bell-shaped flowers, it can be a nuisance in some parts of North America where it is an invasive species. This plant has tall upright stems with green, lance-shaped foliage. Despite being easy to grow, it does not tolerate wet winters well. Although it may appear lovely with its pretty purple blooms, Campanula rapunculoides is actually a burly thug that can create havoc in gardens. If you find yourself dealing with this invader, continue reading to discover how to remove creeping bellflowers.

Common names

Creeping Bellflower, Rampion Bellflower, European Bellflower, Lygurian Bellflower

How to care for Creeping Bellflower

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Creeping Bellflower, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Creeping Bellflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Creeping Bellflower loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Creeping Bellflower thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Lygurian Bellflower.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Creeping Bellflower should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Creeping Bellflower’s native range is Europe, north to 65°N., east to W. Asia and the Caucasus. Introduced in Britain.


More info:
Wikipedia