Campanula Medium | The Bellflower That Adorned European Gardens

Campanula medium is a biennial plant that produces delicate, bell-shaped flowers, and it is also known as “Canterbury Bells.” Its blossoms have a soft and elegant appearance, making it highly popular both in gardens and as cut flowers.

In this article, I will explain in detail the basic information, cultural and historical background, and key tips for cultivating Campanula medium.

Basic Information

• Scientific name: Campanula medium
• Family: Campanulaceae
• Origin: Southern Europe
• Appearance: Campanula medium grows to a height of about 50–100 cm with upright stems. Its bell-shaped flowers come in shades of violet-blue, white, and pink, blooming densely to create a graceful and striking impression. The leaves are elongated and oval-shaped, with a vivid green color.
• Blooming season: May–July

Cultural Significance Around the World

Campanula medium has long been cherished in European garden culture.

In the United Kingdom, its distinctive shape and vivid colors have made it a staple of traditional cottage gardens, where it adds elegance to the entire landscape.

In the Catholic Church, its bell-shaped flowers are associated with church bells, symbolizing “prayer” and “faith.”

In France, it has long been incorporated into floral arrangements and bouquets, often used for festivals and wedding decorations.

Historical Background

The history of Campanula medium dates back to 16th-century Europe.

In its native Southern Europe, it was first admired for its beauty in monastery gardens before spreading across the continent.

By the 18th century, it was cultivated extensively in England, gaining popularity as an ornamental plant.

During the Victorian era, it was often given as a gift, symbolizing gratitude and sincerity, and was depicted in many poems and paintings.

In the 19th century, it was introduced to the United States, where it has naturalized in certain regions.

Gardening Advice

Campanula medium is easy to grow and can be enjoyed both in gardens and in pots. Here are some cultivation tips:

Sunlight

It prefers sunny, well-ventilated locations. It also grows in partial shade, but abundant sunlight improves flowering.

Watering

Water thoroughly when the soil becomes dry. To avoid overwatering, wait until the surface soil dries before watering again.

Soil

It thrives in well-drained soil. A light soil mixed with leaf mold is ideal. For potted plants, placing small stones at the bottom helps with drainage.

Fertilizer

Apply a phosphorus-rich fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it may cause stems to grow excessively long.

Pruning

Remove wilted flowers regularly to encourage new blooms. After flowering, a light pruning helps maintain shape.

Conclusion

Campanula medium is an elegant biennial with cascading bell-shaped flowers, highly valued for both gardens and cut arrangements.

Native to Southern Europe, it spread across the continent from the 16th century and became deeply rooted in the garden traditions of England and France.

With proper sunlight and well-drained soil, anyone can enjoy its graceful and abundant blossoms.