Platycodon
grandiflorus
Mariesii
Balloon Flower
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Type:
Perennials
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Height:
Medium 18-36" (Plant 16" apart)
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Bloom Time:
Summer to Late Summer
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Sun-Shade:
Full Sun to Mostly Sunny
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Zones:
3-9
Find Your Zone
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Soil Condition:
Normal, Acidic
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Flower Color / Accent:
Blue /
Blue
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Many spikes of large deep blue "balloons" first inflate and then burst open to bell shaped blossoms. Foliage is deep green and tidy. Slow to emerge in spring but worth the wait. Platycodon is a reliable bloomer that is long lived and rarely needs dividing.
Features to Note:
- Good for Cut Flowers
- For a sunny spot
General Information:
Platycodon are care-free, long lived and very easy to grow. Avoid too moist (wet feet). Late to show in the spring. Tolerant of neglect. Good for the Rock garden, border or as a ground cover.
Plant Care:
Prefers highly organic, moist but well drained soil. Plants are slow to emerge in spring. Plants are slow to establish but long lived once mature. Plants can be cut back by half in late May/Early June to promote bushiness and compact habit. Dislikes being divided or transplanted due to long taproot. Remove dead stems after leaves drop in fall and cut back to 6". Benefits from watering during dry spells.
