A fine group of garden plants in blue or white shades ranging from very dwarf to 6ft tall. Some bloom for the better part of summer. Most Campanulas are hardy and easy to grow. The smaller ones are superb in rock gardens and containers.

Light/Watering: Full sun or partial shade (required for all but C. persicifolia and C. pyramidalis in the South). Needs regular moisture. Water thoroughly after planting, and keep a close eye over the following week. Provide shade if the plant wilts but the soil is moist. After the first week, give a new plant a good soaking once a week during summer when rainfall is less than 1in per week.

Fertilizer/Soil and pH: Moderately rich, well-drained soil. We recommend against fertilizing at planting time and during the first growing season in your garden. Plants need time to settle in before being pushed to grow. Most established plants grow best if fertilized with a light hand. We fertilize perennials just once -- in early spring -- with a light but even coverage of a balanced, granular fertilizer (such 10-10-10 or an organic fertilizer). If a concentrated, water-soluble fertilizer is used, please follow the manufacturers' recommendations carefully.

Temperature: Campanulas prefer part shade in warmer climates. They are not well suited to the desert Southwest.

Continuing Care: Prompt removal of spent flowers encourages rebloom in many varieties and prevents self-sowing. Leave new fall growth at base to overwinter. Divide clumps in fall every 3-4 years, especially with vigorous species, like C. glomerata, which can become invasive.

Companions: Combine with early Asters, Foxgloves, or Siberian Iris.