Overview
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') is a perennial in the genus Platycodon, part of the Campanulaceae family. It typically grows around 0.5 m tall. Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to East Asia.
About
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') is a perennial in the Campanulaceae that reaches around 0.5 m and is noted for its late-summer flowering. It flowers from July to September. The plant prefers full sun and a moist but well-drained soil and tolerates sandy, loamy and clay textures. Fully hardy (H7) in the UK and native to East Asia, it suits sunny borders and pots where its seasonal flowers can be displayed.
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 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') is a herbaceous perennial in the bellflower family, native to East Asia. It grows to roughly 0.5 m and produces its display in the height of summer; the reliable flowering period is July to September. The cultivar name signals a selected garden form rather than a change in basic habits. Plant it in a sunny spot; full sun gives the best span of blooms. It accepts a wide range of soils — sandy, loamy or clay — provided they remain moist but are well drained. Work organic matter into heavy soils to maintain moisture without waterlogging, and avoid sites that remain waterlogged over winter if you want the best crown health. It is fully hardy to H7, so it tolerates winter conditions across the UK when sited where water does not collect at the roots. At about 0.5 m tall it is suitable for the front to middle of a mixed border, for sunny gravel areas that retain some moisture, or for containers that are watered regularly. Position plants where their summer flowers will be visible, and plan for their season: expect the flowering display in July to September.
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 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 0.5 m
- Native to
- East Asia
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale')?
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') prefers full sun.
What soil does Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') need?
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') 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 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') grow?
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') reaches a height of 0.5 m.
Is Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') hardy in the UK?
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Mother of Pearl' ('Perlmutterschale') has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
