Cherry Bells Campanula punctata f. rubriflora
ABOUT
Cherry bells is a flowering plant with a distinct, showy appearance. Its blossoms are bell-shaped, hanging downwards, with a deep pink to reddish-purple color tinged with darker spots inside. The petals have pointed tips and are slightly opened at the base, with a flared shape that reveals the flower's interior. Its foliage is a rich, dark green, forming a lush backdrop for the striking flowers. The leaves are broad, with a heart or oval shape, and have a serrated edge, adding texture to the plant's overall look. They grow on stems that arise from a central rosette. Cherry bells has a delicate yet robust look, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens, where its vivid blooms add a splash of color in the flowering season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Campanulaceae
Synonyms
Cherry Bells, Spotted Bellflower
Common names
Campanula punctata var. hondoensis Kitam.
ToxicityTo humans
The Spotted bellflower is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, individuals could potentially have an allergic reaction or sensitivity to the plant which is not the norm. There is no well-documented case of poisoning or symptoms associated with ingesting this plant.
To pets
The Spotted bellflower is also considered non-toxic to pets. It is not listed among plants that are known to cause poisoning in household pets such as cats and dogs. As with humans, some pets may have an allergic reaction or individual sensitivity, but there are no common toxic effects associated with ingesting parts of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Campanula punctata f. rubriflora, known as Spotted Bellflower, has attractive bell-shaped flowers that provide visual interest and beauty in gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: The plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity and pollination in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Spotted Bellflower is known for being easy to grow and requiring minimal care, making it ideal for beginner gardeners or those with little time for gardening.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Versatility: It can be used in various garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and as ground cover, due to its adaptable growing habit.
- Seasonal Interest: Offering blooms primarily in the summer, Spotted Bellflower provides a seasonal display that can complement other plants' bloom times for year-round interest.
- Propagation Ease: The plant can easily be propagated by division or cuttings, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings and share with others without additional cost.
- Wildlife Shelter: The dense foliage can provide shelter and nesting sites for small wildlife, enhancing the garden's ecological habitat.
Medical Properties- Campanula punctata f. rubriflora, commonly known as Spotted Bellflower, does not have widely recognized medical properties and is primarily grown for ornamental purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Container Gardening: Spotted Bellflower can be used in pots or containers to decorate balconies and patios for its attractive bell-shaped flowers and foliage.
- Butterfly Gardens: Planting Spotted Bellflowers can attract pollinators such as butterflies, adding a dynamic element to garden spaces.
- Border Edging: Due to its medium height and clumping nature, it is suitable for use as a border edge in garden designs.
- Hanging Baskets: Spotted Bellflower's cascading blooms are well-suited for hanging baskets, where the flowers can be appreciated from below.
- Fairy Gardens: Small cultivars of the Spotted Bellflower can be used to create whimsical fairy gardens, enhancing the magical aesthetic.
- Photography: The unique look of the Spotted Bellflower makes it an interesting subject for botanical and garden photography.
- Dried Flower Arrangements: The flowers can be dried and used in everlasting bouquets or other dried flower crafts.
- Garden Ground Cover: Spotted Bellflower can act as ground cover, filling in spaces between larger plants or covering bare areas of soil.
- Educational Uses: The plant can be included in educational gardens or programs to illustrate plant growth habits, pollination, or botany studies.
- Companion Planting: Spotted Bellflower can be planted alongside other perennials that have similar light and soil requirements, promoting a healthy and aesthetically pleasing garden ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cherry Bells is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cherry Bells is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Gratitude: The Campanula, commonly referred to as Bellflower, often symbolizes gratitude, reflecting the bell-like shape of its blossoms as if they are poised to receive kindness.
- Constancy and Perseverance: Bellflowers can also represent steadfastness and endurance, possibly due to their hardy nature and ability to flourish in a variety of conditions.
- Unwavering Love: Some cultures use the Bellflower to signify unwavering love, embodying the idea that affection can stand the test of time, much like the durable blooms of the flower.
- Humility: The drooping nature of the Bellflower is sometimes seen as a symbol of humility, suggesting a quiet elegance and simplistic beauty.
WaterCherry Bells should be watered deeply and the soil allowed to dry out partially between waterings. It's best to water this plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once every week or so, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. During the active growing season in spring and summer, they may require more frequent watering, possibly twice a week. Provide about one to two gallons of water for outdoor plants to ensure the water reaches the deep roots. Indoor potted plants typically require less water, about 16 to 32 ounces depending on pot size. In the winter, reduce watering frequency to prevent soggy soil.
LightCherry Bells prefers partial shade to full sun, thriving best in a location that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun. An east-facing window or a spot that gets filtered light, such as under a tree canopy or a sheer curtained window, is ideal. Ensure that the plant receives at least four hours of sunlight daily to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
TemperatureCherry Bells does well in temperate climates and can tolerate a temperature range from 40 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature for this plant is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect the plant from extreme heat or cold, as temperatures outside this range can stress the plant and impact its health.
PruningCherry Bells should be pruned to remove faded flowers and dead foliage, which encourages new growth and maintains a tidy appearance. The best time for pruning is after the plant has finished blooming, typically in late summer or early fall. Deadheading spent flowers regularly throughout the blooming season can also promote more blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSpotted Bellflower requires well-draining soil mixed with compost to increase fertility. The best pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5. A soil mix consisting of one part garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or sand is ideal for retaining moisture while providing adequate drainage.
RepottingThe Spotted Bellflower should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It is best to repot in spring before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingThe Spotted Bellflower prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Aim to maintain humidity around 40-50% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; water when the topsoil dries.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, shelter from harsh afternoon rays.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Campanula punctata f. rubriflora, commonly known as Spotted Bellflower 'Cherry Bells', begins with seed germination, which occurs in cool temperatures in late winter to early spring. The seedlings emerge and develop into rosettes, with the plant investing energy in leaf and root growth. As temperatures warm, the plant enters the vegetative stage, growing taller and producing more foliage. Following the vegetative stage, 'Cherry Bells' enters the reproductive stage in late spring to early summer, where it produces tall flowering stems with pendulous, bell-shaped flowers that are dark pink to red. After pollination, typically by bees and other insects, the plant produces seed capsules that release seeds, ensuring the next generation. In the autumn, the plant may die back, entering a period of dormancy in colder climates, but it can also behave as a perennial, re-emerging from its root system the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method for propagating the Spotted bellflower (Campanula punctata f. rubriflora) is by division. This is typically done in spring or early fall. To propagate by division, you should carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps of roots into smaller sections, each containing a few shoots and a portion of the root system. These sections can then be planted in well-draining soil at the same level they were growing at before. Make sure each new plant has ample space to grow, approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) apart, to ensure adequate air circulation and reduce the chance of disease. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them. This method is reliable and helps to rejuvenate older clumps that might be getting too large or are starting to die out in the center.
