Phyteuma scheuchzeri aka Horned Rampion

Phyteuma scheuchzeri belongs to the bellflower family, Campanulaceae. It is a perennial, a plant that lives for years. Its common names include Oxford rampion and weakstemmed mixedflower. It comes from the southern Alps and northern Apennines. These are parts of Europe with a temperate climate. The plant is not native to Britain or Ireland. The RHS also lists Phyteuma corniculatum as a synonym. This is another name for the same plant. In gardens, it grows in small, upright tufts.

The plant forms clumps of narrow leaves with a linear shape. Each leaf can reach about 0.5 feet [0.15 metres] long. It keeps some leaves through the colder season. This makes its foliage semi-evergreen. The RHS gives its height as 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. It gives the same range for its spread. This size suits the front of a flower border. Plants take two to five years to reach full size. The leafy tufts form the base of its upright growth.

Round flower heads rise above the tufts in summer. Their colours range from violet-blue to blue and purple. The RHS lists summer bloom but gives no exact months. Chicago Botanic Garden lists blooms from May through August. The round heads contrast with the long, narrow leaves. Both sources suggest this plant for beds or borders. The RHS also suggests a sunny rock garden.

Choose soil with a moderate level of fertility and good drainage. The RHS lists chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. The soil can be acid, neutral, or alkaline. Moist soil suits it if excess water can drain away. It also grows in well-drained ground. Chicago Botanic Garden advises a moderate amount of water. The RHS favours full sun and shelter. Sites that face south or west fit that guidance. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists part shade as an option.

The RHS gives this species a UK hardiness rating of H6. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 5–9. The RHS says it needs no routine pruning. To grow new plants, sow seeds in containers in autumn. Keep them in a cold frame. Slugs and snails may attack the plant, so check for damage. The RHS reports few disease problems when grown in gardens. These traits suit its use in small beds and rock gardens.