Campanula pallida
Campanula pallida · Campanulaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant campanula pallida: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Campanulaceae
- Type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September, pale blue flowers
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Hardy to –15 °C
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
- Origin
- Mountainous regions of southern and central Europe
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during the growing season, without waterlogging. Reduce watering in winter. Water moderately at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage, to prevent fungal diseases.
Exposure and climate
Choose a spot in light sun or partial shade. In warm regions, afternoon shade protects it from drying out. It appreciates airy, cool environments.
Soil
Use well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Improve heavy soil with compost or potting mix. Adequate drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming. In late autumn, cut back dry stems to ground level. Light spring cleaning encourages vigorous regrowth.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when growth resumes, then monthly during flowering at low dose. Avoid excess nitrogen, which weakens the plant.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew in warm, humid weather. Crown rot can occur with excess water. Good air circulation and careful watering generally prevent problems.
Did you know?
Campanula pallida belongs to the Campanula genus, whose Latin name means 'little bell' referring to the characteristic bell shape of its flowers. It has long been cultivated in European alpine and rock gardens, where its pale blue colour and hardiness make it a favourite choice for mountain plant enthusiasts.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Trailing bellflowerCampanula poscharskyana
- Dalmatian bellflowerCampanula portenschlagiana
- PānakenakeLobelia angulata
- Carpathian bellflowerCampanula carpatica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.