Dalmatian Bellflower
campanula portenschlagiana
Also known as: ["Auricaria portenschlagiana","Campanula muralis"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading perennial with bell-shaped flowers and attractive foliage, native to the Dalmatian region of Croatia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Genus: | Campanula |
| Botanical Name: | Campanula portenschlagiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, border fronts, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering in late spring or early summer; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or leggy stems and spent flowers.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun or filtered light per day; adjust for intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; place in dappled shade outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid full afternoon sun; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; amend heavy soil with organic matter.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 60–70°F (15–21°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions; avoid extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool to moderate conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and blooming.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; gently remove plant; inspect roots; repot carefully; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid overwatering by letting excess drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is not overly wet; provide a protective layer of mulch around roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; increased water demand to prevent dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCampanula portenschlagiana is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCampanula portenschlagiana is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCampanula portenschlagiana is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Campanula portenschlagiana?
A: It can be propagated by division in spring or by seed sown in autumn or spring.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, though it can tolerate some shade.
Q: Is Campanula portenschlagiana invasive?
A: It spreads moderately but is not considered invasive in most garden settings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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