Carpathian Bellflower
Carpathian bellflower (Campanula carpatica) is a compact, tufted bellflower for rock gardens and edging. Plants form neat mounds and carry upward-facing blue or white cups in early summer. Bloom can continue with steady deadheading. It is best where summers are cool and soils drain well. In hot regions it appreciates afternoon shade and even moisture. It suits small spaces and thrives in raised beds, wall crevices, and containers. Fragrance is typically absent.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Perennial species; tufted, clump-forming
- Height × spread: 6-12 in × 12-24 in (15-30 cm × 30-60 cm)
- Bloom window: June to August
- Color & flower form: Blue to white; open, upward-facing cups; single
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 3-8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Lower and tighter habit than most bellflowers
- Upward-facing flowers rather than nodding bells
- Long bloom with deadheading compared with many species
- Prefers cool summers; less tolerant of heat than taller border types
Strengths
- Compact habit for edges and rock work
- Reliable in well-drained soils
- Good performance in raised beds and wall pockets
- Reblooms with prompt deadheading
Care in one minute
- Site in full sun to light shade; give afternoon shade in hot-summer areas
- Soil: average to moderately fertile, well drained; neutral to slightly alkaline
- Water: steady moisture in summer; do not allow waterlogging
- Feeding: light spring feed only if soil is poor
- Groom: deadhead to extend bloom; divide clumps every 3 to 4 years
Watch‑outs
- Declines in heat and humidity
- Needs sharp drainage; winter wet can cause crown rot
- Short stems limit use as cut flower
Best uses (tags)
borders, rock gardens, containers, pollinators, front-of-border
Provenance note
Native to the Carpathian Mountains of central Europe; long cultivated in rock gardens.
References
- NC State Extension: Campanula carpatica
- Native Plant Trust Go Botany: Campanula carpatica
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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