Royal Bluebell
Wahlenbergia gloriosa
Royal Bluebell is a charming alpine perennial with deep blue-violet bell-shaped flowers. Native to Australia's high country, it's the floral emblem of the Australian Capital Territory and symbolizes growth and progress.
Campanulaceae (Bluebell family)
Late spring through summer (October-March in Southern Hemisphere)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: monsteras and coastal wildflowerss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Royal Bluebell was announced as the floral emblem of the Australian Capital Territory on May 26, 1982, by a selection committee chaired by the director of the Australian National Botanic Gardens. It was chosen for its occurrence in the ACT, horticultural merit, and potential for stylized representations. The specific epithet "gloriosa" is Latin for "famous" or "splendid." A postage stamp featuring the Royal Bluebell was issued in August 1986. The genus was named after Georg Göran Wahlenberg (1780-1851), a Swedish botanist and professor at Uppsala. In Australia, this wildflower represents growth and progress. In the wild, it is a protected flower—wild specimens should not be picked or collected.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade in cooler regions
Water
Moderate; keep soil moist but not waterlogged; drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Fertile, Enriched with organic matter, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in enriched soil with well-rotted compost or organic matter
Shallow-rooted; avoid waterlogging which can cause root rot
Fertilize with soluble liquid fertilizer in spring and autumn for vigorous growth
Propagate by division, cuttings (spring-autumn), or seed
Flowers are short-lived but bloom continuously from October to March
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Ground cover in rock gardens
- Alpine and subalpine gardens
- Container plants and hanging baskets
- Borders and edging
- Native Australian gardens
Traditional Uses
- Not commonly used medicinally; primarily grown for ornamental and symbolic value
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Royal Bluebell
Is Royal Bluebell native to Australia?
Yes, Royal Bluebell is native to southeastern Australia, including the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, and Victoria. It grows naturally in subalpine and alpine regions above 1,500 meters elevation.
Can you pick Royal Bluebell in the wild?
No, Royal Bluebell is a protected wildflower in Australia. Wild-growing specimens should not be picked or collected. You can grow cultivated plants from nurseries in your own garden.
How do you propagate Royal Bluebell?
Royal Bluebell can be propagated by division (rhizomes), cuttings taken in spring-autumn, or from seed. Division is easiest—use a sterilized blade to divide rhizomes into sections and plant in well-draining soil.
Why is Royal Bluebell the ACT floral emblem?
Royal Bluebell was chosen in 1982 as the floral emblem of the Australian Capital Territory for its natural occurrence in the ACT, horticultural merit, and suitability for artistic representation in emblems and designs.
Is Royal Bluebell frost hardy?
Yes, Royal Bluebell is very frost-hardy, naturally growing in alpine and subalpine regions that experience harsh winters. It goes dormant in winter, disappearing underground until spring returns.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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