Fragile Bellflower
campanula fragilis
Also known as: ["Fragile Bellflower","Fragile Canterbury Bells"]
Overview
A delicate herbaceous perennial with bell-shaped flowers, native to alpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Genus: | Campanula |
| Botanical Name: | Campanula fragilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the growing season to promote bushiness.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun and afternoon shade in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) in winter promote blooming.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; deadhead flowers; trim back overgrown stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy stems to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or cessation of flowering in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease; soil dries out rapidly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCampanula fragilis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCampanula fragilis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCampanula fragilis is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Campanula fragilis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Campanula fragilis require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Q: How often should I water Campanula fragilis?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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