Campanula carpatica
Perennial
USDA Zones: 3 - 8
Light: sun; partial shade in Zones 7 and warmer
Height: 6-12 inches
Width: 6-8 inches
Flower Colors: blue, white
Bloom Time: late spring - fall
Special Features:
Easy to Grow
Flowers
Carpathian harebell is a favorite of perennial gardeners. It produces showy 2-inch cup-shaped flowers that come in the most gorgeous shades of blue and white. The open, upward-facing flowers often last throughout the growing season.
Carpathian harebell forms an 8 to 12-inch compact mound. It is a natural for the front of the bed, and make a lovely groundcover.
Notable Varieties
'Blue Clips' produce masses of sky blue, upward facing blooms. They grow 6-8 inches high and wide.
'White Clips' is similar to 'Blue Clips' but has white flowers.
Care
All varieties of campanula do best in full sun in moist soil that is rich in organic matter with ample moisture. Removed faded flowers to promote reblooming. Fertilize by mulching with compost once or twice a year. In Zones 3 to 6, mulch with pine boughs or chopped autumn leaves after the first frost for winter protection. Divide the plants every two years to maintain vigor.If the flower production fades, shear the spent blooms to reinvigorate the plant.
Planting
Plant in full sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil, adding plenty of compost to the soil. Space plants 6-8 inches apart. Carpathian harebells are easily grown from seed or started plants. The plants do best in areas where nighttime temperatures stay below 70 degrees F.Divide at least every other year, annually in areas with mild winters. Replant the vigorous divisions from the clump's outer portion.
Pests and Diseases
Snails and slugs may be troublesome.