Carpathian bellflower grows best in the cooler parts of the country; it does poorly in hot, humid environments. Provide full sun or part shade (especially in warmer regions) and good drainage to keep bellflower content. Deadheading encourages repeat bloom and discourages an overabundance of self-sown seedlings (leave a few seedpods on the plant if you want a few more plants). Slugs are the only enemy; reduce damage from these critters by following the directions on page 118.
Carpathian bellflower is one of the most handsome low-growing plants for the front of the border. In midsummer, it produces masses of brilliant blue flowers that are shaped like little bells (Campanula means “little bell” in Latin) and nod slightly on 8-inch stems. The plants spread slowly. When this plant is in bloom, the foliage can hardly be seen because there are so many flowers. This bellflower is easy to grow and adds bright, reliable color to the summer garden.
Carpathian bellflower belongs at the front of every perennial border, where its brilliant splash of blue can be best appreciated. It is also suited for growing in rock gardens and along the tops of rock walls, where it can spill down to make a colorful, cascading show. Carpathian bellflower fares well in containers such as window boxes and patio planters, provided that the plants are not kept too wet or allowed to dry out too much.
ZONES: 3–8
BLOOM TIME: Midsummer
LIGHT: Full to part sun
HEIGHT:8 inches
INTEREST: Masses of brilliant blue bell-shaped flowers on a low, spreading plant that makes a great ground cover