Blue Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorus) Also referred to as common, Chinese, or Japanese bellflower, P. grandiflorus. is an outstanding producer of three inch blue flowers with 5 star-like petals, however, flowers first emerge resembling a small balloon. Plants can reach up to 40", producing blooms reliably throughout the summer well into fall. This is a hardy, disease-resistant species that is also not often browsed by deer. Can be grown well in partial shade but wet areas should be avoided. This herbaceous perennial is suitable for gardeners in zones 3-9.
40 seeds per packet $4.45
Growing Instructions: Seeds will benefit from 4 weeks of stratification and can be directly sown in late fall or early spring. Most often sown indoors six to eight weeks prior to the last average spring frost date to see blooms in the first year. Best to surface sow and cover very lightly as seeds need light to germinate. Careful when transplanting as roots do not like being disturbed. Ensure planted in well drained soil.
Days to Sprout: 15-20
Plant Spacing: 10" (25cm)
Plant Height: 20"- 40" (50cm - 100cm)
Features:
Hardiness Zone: Zones 3 to 9
Bloom Time: Long lasting blooms through July and August
Light Requirements: Full Sun / Partial Shade
Deer Resistant
Great as Cut Flowers or Bouquets
*Flowers are edible and can be added to salads. After being properly prepared, the roots were traditionally used as a cough suppressant in some East Asian countries.
