Canterbury bells - Campanula medium (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Canterbury bells

Also known as: Cup and saucer

The flowers of canterbury bells (*Campanula medium*) are bell-shaped; hence, the name. It is a native Southern European plant. In floriography, a coded language communicated through flowers that dates back to Victorian times, it represents gratitude. It is one of the flowers Thomas Jefferson grew at Monticello, his homestead.

Scientific classification

Species

Canterbury bells (Campanula medium)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Biennial, Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Early summer, Late spring

Harvest Time

10 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Canterbury bells

Distribution of Canterbury bells

Distribution Map

Canterbury bells, native to the Mediterranean region of Europe, thrives in temperate zones, having been introduced and cultivated across areas in Europe, North and South America, parts of Asia, and Oceania. Its adaptability has allowed it to settle in a wide range of climates, from cold to tropical highlands, making it a notable species in gardens and horticultural collections far beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Railway banks, stony banks amongst calcareous rocks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Canterbury bells can be used in flowerbeds and borders. This popular garden plant is the perfect solution to filling in gaps of space that appear between beds and borders, it is both prized and often used for that purpose, with the added benefit of its bright, appealing blooms. It is an excellent fit for cottage gardens as well as near-natural gardens and is often planted with the Daylily and Lamb's Ears for their complementary blooms.

Symbolism

Healthy, tender, lovely, and thankful

Interesting Facts

It is said that long ago, there was a couple whose husband was blind and wife wore a bell so that her husband would be able to hear her voice and find her. Unfortunately, one day the husband went out and never returned. Villagers told her that her husband fell off the cliff and died. The wife waited by the rocks every day. Suddenly one day, a green plant grew near the rocks and several bell-like flowers blossomed. This is the story of the canterbury bells.

Name Story

Canterbury bells: The name for Canterbury bells comes from campanula with the meaning of "little bells" since the flowers are bell-shaped. It is not certain how Canterbury bells got the name, Canterbury.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Canterbury bells, including the following common varieties :

Canterbury bells 'Calycanthema'Canterbury bells 'Champion Pink'Bellflowers 'Sarastro'

Quickly Identify Canterbury bells

Erect stems 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall, reddish-brown with bristly hairs for rough texture.

Large, bell-shaped flowers in blue, purple, or white hues, forming a unique cup-and-saucer profile.

Distinctly lanceolate to elliptical basal leaves with serrated edges, stalked; upper leaves smaller, sessile.

Tall spikes with 2-inch (5 cm) wide bell-shaped blooms in vibrant colors from late spring to mid-summer.

Flowers lack strong scent, visually appealing for pollinators, emphasizing bell-like shape.

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Care Guide for Canterbury bells

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Canterbury bells flourishes in moderate climates with consistent moisture, preferring evenly moist soil and tolerating minimal drought. Water weekly to sustain lush growth, especially during the active growing season to support vigorous development.

Fertilize: For canterbury bells, apply high phosphorus fertilizers biweekly during the growing season, using 1/4 to 1/2 strength for potted plants. Reduce during dormancy and ensure soil is moist to prevent burn. Regular feeding boosts canterbury bells's health and vibrancy.

Pruning: Canterbury bells is a biennial with bell-shaped flowers. Prune in early spring or late winter to enhance growth and blooms. Remove damaged foliage and spent stems to improve appearance and redirect energy. Consistent pruning reduces disease risk and promotes vigor using clean, sharp tools.

Propagation: Canterbury bells thrives when propagated through cuttings. To propagate, cut a healthy stem, apply rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil. Maintain humidity and monitor soil moisture for successful root establishment and to enjoy the lovely blooms of canterbury bells.

Repotting: Transplant canterbury bells seedlings to 9-11 cm (3.5-4.3 inches) pots once they develop 5-6 true leaves. Ensure pots have excellent drainage for optimal growth.

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