About
Platycodon grandiflorus, the balloon flower, is a compact, herbaceous perennial to 60 cm with blue-green, lance-shaped leaves and large, inflated, balloon-like buds that open to wide, cup-shaped, violet-blue flowers 5 cm across in late summer. A charming and rewarding perennial for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Platycodon are herbaceous perennials with neat, ovate leaves and terminal clusters of open, bell-shaped flowers which open from large, balloon-shaped buds in late summer. Reliable and rewarding border perennials.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeConifers, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Rock garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil. Protect from drying winds especially when young
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a canker