Large Campanula, Giant bellflower

Campanula latifolia

Physical Characteristics

Campanula latifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Much of Europe, including Britain, north to Norway east to Siberia and W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade; Hedgerow; North Wall. In. East Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - raw or cooked[5, 177]. Contains up to 400mg% of vitamin C[174]. Root - raw[74]. This report is rather vague and needs further investigation. Flowers - raw or cooked. A pleasant sweetness[K].

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Vitamin C The flowers are emetic[61].

Known Hazards

None known