Overview
Campanula hispidula Thunb. is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Campanulaceae. It is commonly known as the “hairy bellflower” due to the long hairs on both surfaces of its leaves and stems.
Origin and Distribution
Campanula hispidula Thunb. is native to Asia, specifically in countries such as China, Korea, and Japan. It can also be found in other areas of the world, including Europe and North America, where it has become an invasive species in some regions.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names, including Hairy Campanula, Japanese Bellflower, Thunberg's Bellflower, and Korean Bellflower.
Appearance
Campanula hispidula Thunb. is a perennial herb that grows up to 40 cm high. It has long stems covered with dense hairs. The leaves are around 2-7 cm long and 1-3 cm wide and have a rough texture due to the fine hairs on the surface. The plant produces bell-shaped flowers that can be blue, lavender, or white and are around 2.5 cm long. The flowers bloom from June to August.
Uses
In traditional Chinese medicine, Campanula hispidula Thunb. has been used to treat respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The leaves and roots of the plant are said to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. In addition, the plant is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Growth Conditions for Campanula hispidula Thunb
Campanula hispidula Thunb. is a flowering plant species that typically grows in mountainous regions, particularly in southeastern China. This plant belongs to the family Campanulaceae, commonly known as the bellflower family, and is also commonly known as the hispid bellflower.
Light Requirements
Campanula hispidula Thunb. thrives in partial shade to full sun. It prefers bright indirect light, but the intense midday sun can cause scorching and stunt the growth of this plant. Therefore, it is best to keep it in an area where it receives morning or late afternoon sun and partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a cool and moist environment. It grows best in temperature ranges between 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). The plant will experience dieback if the temperature exceeds 80°F (27°C). Therefore, it is best to keep the plant in a location with proper air circulation and temperature regulation.
Soil Requirements
Campanula hispidula Thunb. requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.6 to 7.8. A recommended soil mixture can consist of peat moss, sand, and perlite. In terms of its nutrient requirements, it needs moderately fertile soil. A balanced fertilizer can be applied during its growing season, which runs from early spring to mid-autumn, but it should not be over-fertilized as it can lead to root burn.
Overall, providing the appropriate growth conditions for Campanula hispidula Thunb. is crucial for the plant's health and growth. With the appropriate light, temperature, and soil requirements, this plant can create an attractive display in gardens and containers.
Cultivation
Campanula hispidula Thunb. is typically grown in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. It prefers a well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Plant this species in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. In hotter regions, it thrives well in partial shade. Transplanting of seedlings can be done during their dormancy period either in fall or early spring.
Watering Needs
Campanula hispidula Thunb. should be watered moderately. It prefers a well-drained soil that isn't overly moist. In hot regions, regular watering is mandatory as the soil can dry out quickly. Avoid water drenching as it may lead to a fungal infection and root rot.
Fertilization
The best practice for fertilizing Campanula hispidula Thunb. is to use high-quality compost during planting to improve soil nutrition. Afterward, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once every year in the early part of spring. Too much fertilizer can result in lush foliage and no blooms.
Pruning
Campanula hispidula Thunb. requires very little pruning due to its dwarf size. Pinching off spent flowers is the primary form of pruning. This pruning helps stimulate new growth and prolong the blooming period. Late-season pruning can lead to reduced blooming but rejuvenates the plant in preparation for the next season.
Propagation of Campanula hispidula Thunb.
Campanula hispidula Thunb. can be propagated through several methods including:
Seed Propagation:
Seeds of Campanula hispidula Thunb. can be sown directly once they are collected from the plants. The best time to collect the seeds is during the late summer or early fall when seed capsules are ripe and start to split open. The seeds should be sown in a well-prepared seed bed and covered with a layer of fine soil that is no deeper than the diameter of the seed. The seed bed should be maintained at a temperature of 18 to 21°C and kept moist to encourage germination, which usually takes one to two weeks.
Cuttings Propagation:
Campanula hispidula Thunb. can also be propagated through cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the vegetative period, which is in the late spring and early summer. Softwood cuttings are the most successful, and they should be around 5-10 cm long with two to three nodes. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm, bright location. After a few weeks, roots should have formed, and the cutting can be transplanted into a more permanent container.
Division Propagation:
Campanula hispidula Thunb. can also be propagated by dividing the roots. The best time to divide the plant is during the autumn or spring when the plant is dormant. The plant should be dug out of the soil, and the roots should be gently divided into several smaller clumps. Each clump should have a few shoots and a sufficient amount of roots. The divided clumps can be planted into prepared soil and kept moist until they establish themselves.
Disease and Pest Management for Campanula hispidula Thunb.
Campanula hispidula Thunb., commonly known as the Korean Bellflower, is a beautiful perennial plant that produces bell-shaped purple flowers. However, like any other plant, Campanula hispidula Thunb. is susceptible to various diseases and pest attacks. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them effectively:
Diseases:
1. Powdery Mildew:
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that commonly affects Campanula hispidula Thunb. The disease causes a white powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage the disease, you need to remove the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Also, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded, and there is good air circulation around it.
2. Crown Rot:
Crown rot is a fungal disease that causes the plant's stem and crown to decay, leading to wilting and death. The disease is often caused by excessive watering or poorly-draining soil. To manage crown rot, minimize watering and ensure the soil is well-draining. Also, remove the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly.
Pests:
1. Aphids:
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and deform. To manage aphids, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Additionally, you can wipe the affected parts of the plant with a damp cloth to remove the insects physically.
2. Slugs and Snails:
Slugs and snails are common garden pests that can cause significant damage to Campanula hispidula Thunb. by feeding on its leaves and flowers. To manage them, you can use copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the plant's base to create a barrier that the pests cannot cross. You can also set up beer traps, by filling a container with beer and placing it near the plant. The slugs and snails will be attracted to the beer, crawl into the container, and drown.
Overall, with proper care and management, you can keep Campanula hispidula Thunb. healthy and free from diseases and pests. Regularly inspect the plant and take prompt action if you notice any signs of disease or pest infestation.
