Overview
Platycodon grandiflorus is a perennial in the genus Platycodon, part of the Campanulaceae family. It typically grows around 0.5 m tall. Platycodon grandiflorus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Far East.
About
Platycodon grandiflorus is a herbaceous perennial famed for its balloon-like flower buds that open into bell-shaped blooms. It reaches about 0.5 m and flowers from July to September. Plant in full sun in sandy, loamy or clay soils that are moist but well-drained and expect a fully hardy specimen in UK gardens (H7).
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Platycodon
About the genus
Platycodon grandiflorus is a species of herbaceous flowering perennial plant of the family Campanulaceae, and the only member of the genus Platycodon. It is native to East Asia. It is commonly known as balloon flower, Chinese bellflower, or platycodon.
Wikipedia contributors, "Platycodon", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Platycodon
In the garden
Platycodon grandiflorus belongs to the Campanulaceae and originates from the Far East. As a clump-forming perennial it produces upright stems to roughly 0.5 m and a concentrated display of summer flowers between July and September. The common name reflects the distinctive inflated buds that precede the open flowers. Give it full sun where possible and a soil that retains some moisture yet drains freely; sandy, loamy or clay soils all suit it provided they are not waterlogged. Hardiness is H7, meaning the plant is fully hardy in the UK and can be left in the border through winter without special protection. In cooler climates note its USDA band is 4–9 for reference when comparing cold tolerance internationally. Position Platycodon grandiflorus toward the front or middle of a herbaceous border where its 0.5 m height complements lower or taller neighbours, or plant several together for a focused summer display. The most distinctive trait to watch for is the inflated, balloon-like buds that expand noticeably before unfurling into the bell-shaped flowers, giving a clear seasonal signal of impending bloom.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Platycodon
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Platycodon grandiflorus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Height
- 0.5 m
- Native to
- Far East
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Platycodon grandiflorus?
Platycodon grandiflorus prefers full sun.
What soil does Platycodon grandiflorus need?
Platycodon grandiflorus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Platycodon grandiflorus grow?
Platycodon grandiflorus reaches a height of 0.5 m.
Is Platycodon grandiflorus hardy in the UK?
Platycodon grandiflorus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
