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Bladder campion
Also known as: Cowbell, Common bladder catchfly
In Roman mythology, the goddess Minerva chastised the young Campion by turning him into the bladder campion plant as punishment for falling asleep instead of capturing flies for her owls. Native to Eurasia, this plant was introduced as a horticultural plant because of its lovely flowers. The leaves are eaten as vegetables in many nations.
Scientific classification
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Spring, Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
Harvest Time
40 cm to 1 m
Plant Height
30 cm to 45 cm
Spread
Green, Blue
Leaf Color
2.5 cm
Flower Size
Black
Fruit Color
White
Flower Color
Green
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Semi-evergreen
Leaf type

Images of Bladder campion

Distribution of Bladder campion

Distribution Map
Bladder campion is native to a wide expanse in Europe and parts of Asia and Africa. It has found its way to various other regions across the globe where it is now established. Notably, bladder campion has been introduced to the Americas, Northern Europe, and Australia, where it is often found in disturbed soils. Today, bladder campion has a foothold in continents from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere and is also cultivated beyond its native range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Arable land, roadsides, grassy slopes
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Symbolism
Youthful Love
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Weed Control

Bladder campion hails from Europe and parts of Asia, becoming common as they found their way across the globe. This plant can be considered a weed due to their hardy natures, quick reproductive cycle, and expansive spread. Its tendency to rapidly reproduce and spread makes it an aggressive competitor for resources and space, which can stifle the growth of other, less robust vegetation in gardens and farms. Additionally, its abundant growth can result in unsightly clusters, overshadowing the aesthetics of the garden it infests. Look for its distinctive white flowers and inflated calyx to identify it. Bear in mind, its harmfulness lies not in being toxic or hazardous to humans, but in its ability to outcompete other plants. Bladder campion primarily spreads through the dispersal of its seeds, which are carried by wind and wildlife, meaning one plant can quickly become many over a short period.
How to Control It
The best season to remove or restrict bladder campion is in the early spring before it flowers and sets seed. It's crucial to manage this plant before it reaches the seeding stage to prevent spread.
  1. Hand pulling: It's most effective when the soil is moist. Grasp bladder campion firmly at the base and pull upward to remove the roots.
  2. Mulching: Cover the soil around desired plants with a layer of organic material to suppress bladder campion growth.
  3. Mowing: Regularly mow the area to prevent bladder campion from flowering and seeding.
  4. Cultivation: Before bladder campion seeds, till the soil to disrupt the plant's growth cycle.
  5. Plant competition: Introduce vigorous ground covers or plants that can outcompete bladder campion for resources, thus naturally controlling its spread.
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Care Guide for Bladder campion

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
5 - 32 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Bladder campion thrives in moderate moisture, preferring consistent hydration but can tolerate brief dry spells. Weekly watering is essential for optimal health. It flourishes outdoors, synchronizing its growth cycles with natural rainfall to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilize: For bladder campion, use balanced fertilizers bi-monthly in spring and summer, reducing to once in fall. Apply a diluted half-strength solution and water soil beforehand to prevent root burn. Adjust fertilizer use according to seasonal changes, following the manufacturer's guidelines for safe care.
Pruning: Bladder campion, admired for its delicate white flowers, requires pruning in early to late spring. Trim dead or damaged stems to enhance growth and flowering. This maintenance encourages blooming, prevents leggy growth, and supports a fuller structure, ensuring vigorous growth and extended blooming periods.
Propagation: Bladder campion is best propagated through cuttings in spring and summer. It is moderately challenging, with success shown by new leaf growth. Maintaining adequate moisture during rooting is crucial for successful propagation.
Repotting: Repot bladder campion every 2-3 years in spring to support its growth. Use a medium pot with good drainage. After repotting, maintain moderate watering and provide bright, indirect light for optimal blooming and foliage health.
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