Campanula trachelium
nettle-leaved bellflower
A robust perennial with nettle-like, deeply toothed leaves and erect, leafy stems bearing a raceme of bell-shaped lavender-blue flowers 3cm long in summer
Other common names
blue devil bellflowerblue devils
see moreblue foxglove
Coventry bellflower
cover-keys
gloves of Mary
great throat root
great throatwort
throatwort
Synonyms
Campanula urticifolia
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Campanulaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Campanula may be annuals, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, with bell or star-shaped, often blue, flowers in late spring or summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, N Africa & Sib.
How to grow
Cultivation
Any fertile, well-drained soil in sun or part shade. The flower colour is best in shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in spring. Divide in spring or autumn. Take stem-tip cuttings from new growth after flowering
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
Cut back after flowering to prevent seeding and to encourage a second flush of flower
Pests
Diseases
Powdery mildew and rust may be problematic
Get involved
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