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Description
Campanula Garganica, commonly known as Gargano bellflower, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to the Gargano Peninsula in southeastern Italy, where it grows in rocky areas, meadows, and on limestone cliffs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Campanula |
Appearance
The Gargano bellflower forms low mounds of foliage that grow up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. Its dark green leaves are heart-shaped and have serrated edges. From late spring to early summer, the plant produces numerous bell-shaped flowers that are about an inch in diameter. The flowers are light blue or violet-blue and have five petals that are fused at the base. The flowers grow on short stems that rise above the foliage and can reach up to 10 inches in height.
Care Guide
The Gargano bellflower is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during periods of drought. However, make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly alkaline soil but prefers slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Gargano bellflower is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Gargano bellflower is native to the Gargano Peninsula in southeastern Italy. It grows in rocky areas, meadows, and on limestone cliffs. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Gargano bellflower a good plant for container gardening?
A: Yes, the Gargano bellflower can be grown in containers. Just make sure the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Can the Gargano bellflower be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the Gargano bellflower can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Gargano bellflower?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Does the Gargano bellflower attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the Gargano bellflower is known to attract bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Related Plants
- Campanula Carpatica
- Campanula Poscharskyana
- Campanula Persicifolia
- Campanula Rotundifolia
References
- “Campanula Garganica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287921&isprofile=0&basic=campanula%20garganica.
- “Campanula Garganica.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7643/i-campanula-garganica-i/details.
- “Campanula Garganica.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/119324/Campanula-garganica/.
