Cornish bellflower (Campanula alliariifolia)

Also known as: Ivory Bells, False Garlic Mustard, Chimney Bellflower

This plant is a robust, clump-forming perennial featuring heart-shaped, toothed, grayish-hairy leaves at its base, each about 8 cm in length. It produces white, tubular-bell shaped flowers, approximately 2 cm long, with pointed petals.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Cornish bellflower

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

45 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-3 cm

Flower Color

Creamy-white

Images of Cornish bellflower

Quickly Identify Cornish bellflower

Campanula alliariifolia can be identified by its creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers which droop from tall, wiry stems. The leaves are heart-shaped, and it typically grows to around 60 cm in height.

Scientific Classification of Cornish bellflower

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Bellflower

Genus

Bellflowers

Species

Cornish bellflower

Planting and Growing of Cornish bellflower

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Cornish bellflower?

For Campanula alliariifolia, the ideal watering amount is around 300 ml. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. Water until you see a little drainage from the bottom of the pot, indicating the roots have absorbed what they need without drowning them.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cornish bellflower? ›

What should I do if my Cornish bellflower is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cornish bellflower? ›

How to save an overwatered Cornish bellflower? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cornish bellflower?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Partial sun with dappled shade during the afternoon is ideal. This light range helps the plant develop robust foliage, increase bloom production, and improve resistance against environmental stressors.

How much sunlight does Campanula alliariifolia need daily? ›

What is the preferred orientation for Campanula alliariifolia? ›

What happens if the ideal sunlight is provided? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cornish bellflower?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth, Campanula alliariifolia thrives in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. These conditions replicate its native environment, allowing the plant to focus energy on flower production and foliage growth without the stress of temperature extremes.

What Soil is Best for Cornish bellflower?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Campanula alliariifolia thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. Well-drained soil ensures that excess moisture flows away, providing a healthy environment for root growth and nutrient uptake. This plant prefers soil with moderate nutrient content. Balanced nutrients promote steady growth, vibrant flower production, and overall plant health, avoiding issues that excessive or deficient nutrients may cause. A soil pH ranging from neutral to slightly acidic helps maintain nutrient availability, ensuring Campanula alliariifolia receives essential elements. This framework supports strong stems and lush foliage.

How to Fertilize Cornish bellflower?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Campanula alliariifolia, use a diluted liquid fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio, applying approximately 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. This ensures the plant receives balanced nutrients without overwhelming its delicate systems.

How to Prune Cornish bellflower?

Pruning Time: Summer, Autumn

Use sharp, sterilized shears to remove wilted or dead flowers throughout the flowering period. This not only improves the plant's appearance but also encourages more blooms. To shape the plant, trim back any leggy stems to promote a bushier growth. Focus on cutting at a 45-degree angle, which helps prevent water accumulation and reduces the risk of disease. In late autumn, after the blooming season ends, prune back stems that have become unruly or cross over one another to prevent damage from wind and snow. Cut back about one-third of the plant’s size. This helps prepare Campanula alliariifolia for a dormant period, ensuring a robust return in the spring. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cornish bellflower plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Start by filling seed trays with a fine, well-draining potting mix. Gently press the Campanula alliariifolia seeds into the soil, leaving them exposed to light, which is necessary for germination. Keep the soil consistently moist.

For cutting propagation, use a sharp knife to take 4-6 inch cuttings from a healthy parent plant. Remove the lower leaves, leaving a couple at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting.

In early spring, carefully dig up a mature Campanula alliariifolia plant. Using a sharp spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots attached. Replant immediately into prepared garden soil.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Cornish bellflower plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Campanula alliariifolia shows signs of needing a repot when the roots begin to circle the pot or emerge from drainage holes. Additionally, reduced growth and yellowing leaves indicate it's time for a change. Ideally, repot during spring or autumn when the plant is not in peak flowering, minimizing stress.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Using a slightly larger pot encourages better root expansion and ensures the plant has room to grow, which is vital for healthy foliage and flowering.

Opt for a well-drained potting mix, rich in organic matter. This ensures the plant gets ample nutrients while preventing water retention around the roots. A good mix supports robust growth, helps retain moisture without causing waterlogged conditions, and matches the plant's natural habitat conditions.