Milky Bellflower Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Loddon Anna' is a perennial that boasts a lush clump of foliage at its base, from which arise long, upright stems. These stems are generously adorned with bell-shaped flowers that have a soft, lilac-pink hue, imbuing the plant with a sense of delicate beauty. The flowers are arranged in dense clusters, giving the plant a full and abundant floral display that adds a romantic touch to any garden setting. The leaves of 'Loddon Anna' are deep green, broad, and heart-shaped, providing a perfect backdrop to the pastel flowers and enhancing the overall charm of the plant. The overall appearance of 'Loddon Anna' is one of graceful elegance and captivating color, which makes it a favorite among garden enthusiasts who seek to add a touch of softness and a hint of cottage-garden style to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Campanulaceae
Synonyms
Milky Bellflower, Loddon Anna
Common names
Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Milky Bellflower is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of toxicity arising from the ingestion of any parts of this plant. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with the Milky Bellflower. However, as with any non-food plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it's always advisable to exercise caution and not ingest plants that are not intended for culinary use.
To pets
The Milky Bellflower is not known to be toxic to pets. It does not appear on lists of toxic plants for animals such as dogs and cats. Therefore, if pets were to ingest parts of this plant, there typically would be no symptoms of serious poisoning. However, ingestion of any non-food plant material can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. If a large amount is ingested or if your pet shows signs of illness after ingestion, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pale pink
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The bell-shaped flowers of the Milky Bellflower draw in bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its tall spikes of pastel blue or lilac flowers, it provides a visually striking addition to any garden.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens, it can be used in various garden designs.
- Long Blooming Period: The flowering period spans from early to late summer, providing color for an extended period.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Cold Hardy: It can tolerate cold climates and is hardy in many growing zones.
- Can be used in Cut Flower Arrangements: The flowers hold up well in vases, bringing the garden's beauty indoors.
- Resistant to Deer: Typically, deer will not browse on these plants, making them a good choice for areas with deer populations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden Borders: Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna', commonly known as milky bellflower, is often used to enhance the visual appeal of garden borders with its tall stems and beautiful lilac-colored flowers.
- Cottage Gardens: Its nostalgic aesthetic makes it a perfect fit for cottage gardens, where it can contribute to a charming, informal display.
- Wildlife Gardens: Milky bellflower is beneficial for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, thus helping to support biodiversity within wildlife gardens.
- Floral Arrangements: The flowers are suitable for cutting and can be used in fresh floral arrangements to brighten up interior spaces.
- Photography: The plant's striking blooms provide an excellent subject for garden photography, offering a picturesque element to macro and close-up flower images.
- Educational Uses: Horticulture and botany educators may use the milky bellflower as a live specimen for teaching plant growth habits and reproductive mechanisms in angiosperms.
- Garden Themes: It can be used as part of a themed garden, such as a 'moonlight' garden where its pale flowers catch the moonlight and create a shimmering effect at night.
- Aromatherapy Gardens: The milky bellflower's subtle fragrance can contribute to the sensory experience within aromatherapy gardens, which are designed to promote relaxation and well-being.
- Art Projects: The unique form of the milky bellflower can inspire artists and serve as a motif in various art projects, including painting, illustration, and textile design.
- Seasonal Celebrations: Milky bellflower can be included in garden planning for seasonal celebrations, where its summer bloom time coincides with events and gatherings, providing a natural backdrop.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Milky Bellflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Milky Bellflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: Also known as the Milky Bellflower, Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna' has a resilient nature that symbolizes the ability to persist through challenges.
- Gratitude: The bell-shaped flowers often represent a sense of thankfulness, offering an elegant nod of appreciation in many floral arrangements.
- Affection: The Milky Bellflower is known for its endearing and graceful blossoms, symbolizing feelings of warm attachment and loving thoughts.
- Consistency: With its extended blooming period, this plant signifies dependability and the reassuring consistency of long-term bonds.
- Humility: Growing closer to the ground and often overshadowed by taller plants, it imparts the value of modesty and humble origins.
WaterThe Milky Bellflower, commonly known as Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna', prefers to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the active growing season in spring and summer, it should be watered thoroughly once a week, with about one gallon per plant, ensuring that the soil is moist to a depth of at least a few inches. The foliage should not be wetted to prevent foliar diseases. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week, depending on the environmental conditions and soil moisture levels.
LightFor the Milky Bellflower, it thrives best in full to partial sun conditions. Placing it in a spot where it can receive at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal, although it can tolerate some light afternoon shade. Ensure it is protected from the harsh midday sun in hotter climates to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for the Milky Bellflower is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it suitable for many temperate climates. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit but may suffer if the temperature drops below freezing. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature fluctuations which can stress it.
PruningPruning the Milky Bellflower encourages bushier growth and more blooms. After the initial wave of flowering, cut back the spent flower stems to a few inches above ground level to promote a second flush of blooms. The best time to prune for shape and size is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as needed throughout the year to maintain plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMilky Bellflower prefers well-draining, moist soil with rich organic matter. The best soil mix for 'Loddon Anna' is a blend of loam, peat moss, and perlite or sand to improve drainage. This plant thrives in a neutral to slightly alkaline pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingMilky Bellflower does not require frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingMilky Bellflower thrives in moderate humidity levels but is also appreciative of the higher humidity found in outdoor gardens. Avoid overly dry air conditions, especially indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Place in partial shade to full sun with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna', commonly known as the Milky Bellflower, begins with seed germination, typically in the spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are suitable. Seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of basal leaves, drawing nutrients and energy from the soil to support initial growth. As the plant matures, it develops a sturdy stem and a robust root system, with foliage growing denser. During late spring to early summer, the Milky Bellflower enters the flowering stage, producing tall spikes of soft lilac bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators and may set seed if fertilized. Following the flowering period and potential seed set, the plant enters a period of senescence in late summer or autumn, where above-ground growth may die back, especially in colder climates, while the root system remains dormant through winter. In spring, the plant regrows from its perennial rootstock, beginning a new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: Campanula lactiflora 'Loddon Anna', commonly known as the Milky Bellflower, is often propagated through division in the spring. The most popular method involves carefully lifting the plant from the soil with a spade, ensuring a large root ball is kept intact. The root clump should then be gently teased apart into smaller sections, each with a decent amount of roots and shoots. These divisions can be immediately replanted in well-prepared soil, spaced approximately 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 centimeters) apart, to allow for ample growth. After planting, watering the divisions well helps establish them in their new location. This method offers a quick way to increase your stock of plants while ensuring they are true to the parent plant in form and flower.
