Bluebell

Campanula rotundifolia

Campanulaceae

Growth Habit

Herbaceous

Propagation

sow at 70 days or cold/moist stratification; do not cover - light required for germination

Biocultural Value

The root is chewed in the treatment of heart and lung problems. An infusion of the roots is used as ear drops for a sore ear. A decoction of the plant is drunk or used as a wash in the treatment of sore eyes.

Wildlife Value

It attracts hummingbirds. Typically, small to medium sized bees visit harebell flowers. The five-parted, nodding flowers have a prominent, large, central style that may restrict access to large bees such as bumble bees.

Location

Edwards Lake Cliffs Preserve, Mundy Wildflower Garden

Cultivation

dry, well drained, sun-pt sh

Description

A polymorphic aggregate of perennial forms producing a loose rosette of leaves and stolons, eventually forming a mat from which arise erect flower stems 3-18" tall. Flowers in loose terminal racemes or sometimes solitary, erect in bud, nodding to ascending in flower. Corolla white to deep lavender-blue, about 1" long, campanulate.

Source of plant

Well-Sweep Herb Farm, The Plantsmen, Jardin Botanique de Montreal, Nina Lambert, Alpine Research Seed Exchange

USDA Hardiness Zone

4

Special characteristics

medicinal/pharmaceutical

Status

L3|S4S5|G5