Campanula divaricata (southern harebell) — Bushy

Overview

Campanula divaricata is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Campanula, part of the Campanulaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Campanula divaricata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens.

About

Campanula divaricata, known as southern harebell, is a bushy herbaceous perennial within the Campanula genus, which includes plants bearing bell or star-shaped flowers often in blue hues. This deciduous species thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, preferring moist but well-drained alkaline or neutral soils. Hardy to UK zone H7, it suits cottage and informal gardens as well as wildlife gardens. It is best planted after the last frost in fertile soil and can be propagated by division or basal cuttings in spring or autumn.

About the genus

Campanula is the type genus of the Campanulaceae family of flowering plants. Campanula are commonly known as bellflowers and take both their common and scientific names from the bell-shaped flowers—campanula is Latin for "little bell".

Wikipedia contributors, "Campanula", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Campanula

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Campanula

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Campanula divaricata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Campanula divaricata

Propagation: Propagate by division in spring or autumn or take basal cuttings in spring
Pest resistance: May be damaged by slugs and snails
Disease resistance: May be infected by a rust, powdery mildews and a leaf spot

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Campanula divaricata?

Campanula divaricata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Campanula divaricata need?

Campanula divaricata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Campanula divaricata hardy in the UK?

Campanula divaricata has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Campanula divaricata?

Propagate by division in spring or autumn or take basal cuttings in spring.

More in the Campanula genus

Browse all Campanula →