Campanula latifolia macrantha (Bellflower) — Clump-forming, mat-forming or upright depending on species

Overview

Campanula latifolia macrantha is a clump-forming, mat-forming or upright depending on species perennial in the genus Campanula, part of the Campanulaceae family, with deciduous or semi-evergreen; basal rosettes of rounded or heart-shaped leaves, narrower up the stem foliage. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Campanula latifolia macrantha grows best in full sun to partial shade, and tolerates loam and chalk or sand; most tolerate poor soils soils and neutral to alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5-H7. Suggested uses include borders, cottage gardens and naturalizing. It is native to Europe to Kashmir.

About

Campanula latifolia macrantha is a perennial bellflower that forms clumps and produces upright flowering stems to about 1.5 m. Leaves form basal rosettes of rounded or heart-shaped blades, becoming narrower higher on the stem; foliage may be deciduous or semi‑evergreen. It flowers in the UK from June to September. Plants tolerate a range of exposures and are used where height is required in summer.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Campanula latifolia

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

In the garden

Campanula latifolia macrantha belongs to the Campanulaceae and is native from Europe to Kashmir. It establishes as a clump-forming perennial with basal rosettes of rounded or heart-shaped leaves and tall flowering stems that reach roughly 1.5 m, offering vertical structure through the summer months. Plant in full sun to partial shade on loam, chalk or sandy soils with a neutral to alkaline pH. The species prefers a moist but well-drained position; alpine forms need much sharper drainage. It tolerates poorer soils and will grow equally well in exposed or sheltered sites, but it should not be placed in deep shade. Hardiness H5–H7 indicates the plant is winter-hardy across most UK gardens, from milder coastal areas to colder inland locations. Use it at the back of mixed borders, within cottage-style plantings or for naturalising where tall stems can be accommodated. The habit and foliage make it straightforward to sit beside medium-height perennials and shrubs without masking them. Expect flowering from June to September, so position it where its summer height and bloom period will contribute to layered planting plans.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Campanula

Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
Soil type: Loam, chalk or sand; most tolerate poor soils
Soil pH: Neutral to alkaline
Soil moisture: Moist but well drained; alpine kinds need sharp drainage
Aspect: Any except deep shade
Exposure: Exposed or sheltered
UK hardiness: H5-H7

Plant details

Campanula latifolia macrantha size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, mat-forming or upright depending on species
Foliage: Deciduous or semi-evergreen; basal rosettes of rounded or heart-shaped leaves, narrower up the stem
Height: 1.5 m
Suggested uses: Borders, cottage gardens, naturalizing
Native to: Europe to Kashmir

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Campanula latifolia macrantha

Cultivation: Undemanding given drainage and a reasonably open position. The taller border kinds are worth supporting early, since heavy rain will flatten a flowering stem and it will not lift again. Deadheading extends the season considerably, and the vigorous spreading species are best sited where they can run without swamping smaller neighbours.
Pruning: Cut flowered stems back to basal growth to encourage a second, lighter flush. Tidy remaining foliage in late autumn, or leave the rosettes intact over winter on alpine kinds.
Propagation: Divide in spring or autumn, and take basal cuttings in spring for named cultivars. Species come readily from seed sown fresh, and several self-sow where conditions suit.
Pest resistance: Slugs and snails are the real problem, particularly on emerging spring growth and on alpine rosettes.
Disease resistance: Generally healthy; rust and powdery mildew appear on crowded or drought-stressed plants.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Campanula latifolia macrantha?

Undemanding given drainage and a reasonably open position. The taller border kinds are worth supporting early, since heavy rain will flatten a flowering stem and it will not lift again. Deadheading extends the season considerably, and the vigorous spreading species are best sited where they can run without swamping smaller neighbours.

Where is the best place to plant Campanula latifolia macrantha?

Campanula latifolia macrantha prefers full sun to partial shade. It suits exposed or sheltered positions.

What soil does Campanula latifolia macrantha need?

Campanula latifolia macrantha grows best in loam and chalk or sand; most tolerate poor soils soil. It prefers neutral to alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well drained; alpine kinds need sharp drainage.

How do I prune Campanula latifolia macrantha?

Cut flowered stems back to basal growth to encourage a second, lighter flush. Tidy remaining foliage in late autumn, or leave the rosettes intact over winter on alpine kinds.

How big does Campanula latifolia macrantha grow?

Campanula latifolia macrantha reaches a height of 1.5 m.

Is Campanula latifolia macrantha hardy in the UK?

Campanula latifolia macrantha has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Campanula latifolia macrantha?

Divide in spring or autumn, and take basal cuttings in spring for named cultivars. Species come readily from seed sown fresh, and several self-sow where conditions suit.

More in the Campanula genus

Browse all Campanula →