Wild campanulas?

Discussion in 'Herbs and Wildflowers' started by SimonZ, Aug 21, 2020.

  1. SimonZ

    SimonZ Gardener

    Joined:
    Feb 9, 2009
    Messages:
    895
    Ratings:
    +746
    Somewhat surprised to see what I can only assume to be a wild species of campanula in the Calder valley today. They were there a few weeks ago and today were higher in number. I can usually grow campanula well at home and seeing these suggests there is something in the local soils they must like! The wind and rain were a bit too strong to get a good close pic, they were swaying too much in the breeze, with the second pic I've overdone it a bit on the dark blue when editing, and the third has come out a bit paler than they were, but I'd be interested if anyone could a. confirm they are campanulas, and b. suggest anything in terms of species?

    DSCF3948.JPG DSCF3948.JPG DSCF3949.JPG .
     

    Attached Files:

    • Like Like x 2
    • Mike Allen

      Mike Allen Total Gardener

      Joined:
      Jan 4, 2014
      Messages:
      2,861
      Gender:
      Male
      Occupation:
      Retired. Plant Pathologist.
      Location:
      Eltham. SE. London
      Ratings:
      +6,100
      Such delicate flowers. In the wild. These little beauties are known as harebells. Campanula rotundifolia.
      Undoubtedly many folk have been tempted to extract them fom the native home. Please don't. They like the common Bluebell, will literally die in your arms. Interestingly the seed will germinate, but sadly attempts to prick out will cause their demise. Collect seed and seed purchased from reputable suppliers will give you a good germination rate but. It is considered that this beauty prefers to be left alone in amongst natural growing grasses etc.
       
      • Like Like x 4
        Last edited: Aug 22, 2020
      • Selleri

        Selleri Koala

        Joined:
        Mar 1, 2009
        Messages:
        2,586
        Location:
        North Tyneside
        Ratings:
        +8,154
        Beautifully written, @Mike Allen :)

        Harebell seeds are widely available to buy. They are sold out here but the website is good.

        In Finnish we call it "Kitten's bell" and tell young children that if they gently put a bell close to their ear, they may hear it chiming. It's only audible to children. I remember my (nowadays adult) daughter being delighted in listening to the bells when she was 2 :)
         
        • Like Like x 2
        • Friendly Friendly x 2
        • Sheal

          Sheal Total Gardener

          Joined:
          Feb 2, 2011
          Messages:
          36,100
          Gender:
          Female
          Location:
          Dingwall, Ross-shire
          Ratings:
          +54,270
          I've had some growing in my garden but they haven't appeared this year.
           
          • Friendly Friendly x 1
          • SimonZ

            SimonZ Gardener

            Joined:
            Feb 9, 2009
            Messages:
            895
            Ratings:
            +746
            Many thanks Mike!
             
            • Friendly Friendly x 1
            • JR

              JR Chilled Gardener

              Joined:
              Jul 19, 2020
              Messages:
              954
              Gender:
              Male
              Occupation:
              Retired oil magnate
              Location:
              Cotswolds
              Ratings:
              +2,381
              As you've mentioned 'delicate' common blue bells Mike, i have always been puzzled (and delighted) with mine.
              I've never planted ANY but there are swathes of them in the shaded areas of my garden.
              There is also 'white bells' within them too (superb!)
              I can only think that because this area is adjacent to ancient woods where bluebells are numerous, that they have been brought by the fairies or other woodland animals.
              The ground here is free draining on cotswold hills, so i guess it's ideal for them.
              The scent in April is a very welcome one.
               
              • Like Like x 2
              Loading...

              Share This Page

              1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
                By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
                Dismiss Notice