Campanula
Campanula spp.
Campanula encompasses a large genus of bell-shaped flowers beloved for their charming form and reliable blooms. These cottage garden favorites symbolize gratitude, constancy, and everlasting love.
Campanulaceae (Bellflower family)
Late spring through summer (May-September), varies by species
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: bellflowers and bluebells also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
In European folklore, campanula represents gratitude and constancy. The bell shape was associated with church bells, symbolizing faith and devotion. Canterbury bells were named after the bells worn by pilgrims to Canterbury. In Victorian flower language, bellflowers meant gratitude and everlasting love.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; some species prefer cooler conditions
Water
Moderate water needs; consistent moisture during growing season
Soil
Well-drained, Moist but not wet, Fertile, Neutral to slightly alkaline
Expert Growing Tips
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Some species can be invasive - choose carefully
Excellent drainage essential for most species
Many species self-seed freely
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Cottage and perennial gardens
- Rock gardens and alpine plantings
- Cut flowers and bouquets
- Ground cover (low-growing species)
- Naturalized meadow plantings
Traditional Uses
- Historically used in European folk medicine for throat ailments
- Some species used traditionally for respiratory conditions
- Limited modern medicinal use
- Primarily grown for ornamental value
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Campanula
are campanula deer resistant?
Most campanula species are deer resistant, making them excellent choices for gardens where deer browsing is a problem.
do campanulas spread?
Some campanula species spread by runners or self-seeding and can become invasive, while others form neat clumps. Research the specific variety before planting.
when do campanulas bloom?
Most campanulas bloom from late spring through summer (May-September), with peak flowering typically in early to mid-summer.
what does campanula symbolize?
Campanula symbolizes gratitude, constancy, and everlasting love, with the bell shape traditionally associated with faith and devotion in European cultures.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Bellflower
Campanula persicifolia
Bellflowers are charming perennials with distinctive bell-shaped blooms in blue, purple, or white, symbolizing gratitude and constancy in gardens.
Bluebell
Hyacinthoides non-scripta (English) / Mertensia virginica (Virginia)
Bluebells create magical carpets of nodding blue flowers in woodlands and gardens. These enchanting spring bloomers symbolize humility, constancy, and everlasting love, with their bell-shaped flowers inspiring folklore and fairy tales.
Eustoma
Eustoma grandiflorum
Eustoma (Lisianthus) are elegant flowers with ruffled, rose-like blooms and a long vase life, symbolizing appreciation, gratitude, and charming personality.