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Description
Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue, also known as Balloon Flower, is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. This plant is named after its unique balloon-shaped buds that burst open to reveal stunning bell-shaped flowers. The blooms of Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue are usually blue, but they can also be pink or white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Platycodon |
Appearance
Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue is a clump-forming perennial that can grow up to 60 cm tall and 30 cm wide. It has dark green, heart-shaped leaves that are about 5-8 cm long. The flowers of this plant are bell-shaped and can be up to 5 cm in diameter. They are usually blue, but they can also be pink or white. The buds of Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue are balloon-shaped and can be up to 5 cm in diameter. When the buds burst open, they reveal the stunning flowers.
Care Guide
Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the blooms may not be as prolific.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant, causing damage.
- Aphids: These pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Habitat
Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue is native to East Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and mountains. In cultivation, this plant is often used in borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue?
A: This plant prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil evenly moist. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: How tall does Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue grow?
A: This plant can grow up to 60 cm tall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Q: Can I grow Platycodon Grandiflorus Fuji Blue in a container?
A: Yes, this plant is well-suited for growing in containers.
Related Plants
- Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Astra Pink’
- Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Astra White’
- Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Sentimental Blue’
- Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Mariesii’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Platycodon grandiflorus. Retrieved March 10, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=262365
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Platycodon grandiflorus (Balloon Flower). Retrieved March 10, 2021, from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/platycodon-grandiflorus-balloon-flower
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Fuji Blue’. Retrieved March 10, 2021, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16369/Platycodon-grandiflorus-Fuji-Blue/Details
