Overview

Ostrowskia magnifica is a perennial in the genus Ostrowskia, part of the Campanulaceae family. Ostrowskia magnifica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and rock gardens. It is native to Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

About

Ostrowskia magnifica is a perennial in the Campanulaceae, commonly called the great oriental bellflower for its bell-flower habit. It comes from the mountains of Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. In cultivation it prefers a sunny or partially shaded spot in well-drained soil kept at a moderate moisture level. It is winter-hardy to H5 in the UK and flowers in spring and summer.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ostrowskia

About the genus

Ostrowskia is a genus of plants in the family Campanulaceae. There is only one known species, Ostrowskia magnifica, native to the Central Asian nations of Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

In the garden

Ostrowskia magnifica belongs to the Campanulaceae and originates from Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan; its common name reflects the bell-like form of its flowers. As a perennial it reappears each year and carries its season of interest through spring and into summer. Plant where it receives full sun or partial shade and where soils drain freely. It performs best in a well-drained medium with moderate moisture — avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. In UK terms it is H5 (hardy), which means it can be grown outdoors through typical winter conditions across much of the country, though a sheltered situation will reduce winter exposure. Use Ostrowskia magnifica towards the front or middle of a mixed border or tucked into a rock garden or gravel bed where drainage is reliable. Give it a sunny gap between stones or among other perennials that do not demand very wet soil, and allow it space to show its spring–summer flowering habit in that site.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ostrowskia

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moderate

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Ostrowskia magnifica size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

borders, rock gardens

Native to

Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Ostrowskia magnifica

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates dry conditions once established.

Pruning

Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming.

Propagation

Seed, division

Frequently asked questions