Platycodon grandiflorus
( plat - ik - KOH - don )
At-A-Glance Information
Commonly called Balloon Flower this species of flowering perennial needs light shade in warm climates and regular water. It is native to Siberia, Japan and China, and is grown for its flowers, which make beautiful additions to cut arrangements. These plants reach about 2.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and have balloon-like flower buds that open in summertime to reveal star-shaped flowers, usually in violet-blue. This plant will die back to the ground in fall, and the plant will not return until late spring. Varieties include 'Komachi' (with flowers that do not open from their balloon shape), and 'Mariesii' (with deep violet blue blossoms on a 1.5-foot tall plant). Balloon Flower grows best in zones 1-10 and 14-24. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
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Caring for Platycodon grandiflorus
Removal of spent blooms can elongate blooming season to over two months in the summertime. Mark the ground where this plant is growing so as not to disturb its roots during its long dormancy (fall through late spring).
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Protect roots from gophers. with a wire basket.
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 514, Platycodon grandiflorus
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