How to Grow Platycodon Plants

Guide to Growing Balloon Flower / Bellflowers

The Platycodon contains one species, and this is a commonly grown garden plant.

It goes by the common names of Balloon Flower or Bellflower.

Platycodon grandiflorus (Balloon flower) by Carl E Lewis.

The plant is a hardy perennial. Platycodon plant stalks can reach 30 to 90 cm (1 to 3 feet) in height.

Platycodon flowers in the summer with white, blue, or purple bell shaped flowers.

Commonly Grown Platycodon Species Photographs and Plant Identification

Only one species in Genus, but numerous varieties and cultivars available.

Platycodon grandiflorus

Sometimes referred to as Platycodon grandiflorum

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Platycodon grandiflorus (Balloon flower / Chinese Bellflower), photograph by manuel m. v.; CC.

Platycodon grandiflorus ‘Fuji blue’

Platycodon grandiflorus (Balloon flower Fuji Blue cultivar), photograph by Paul VanDerWerf; CC.

Platycodon grandiflorus white

White Platycodon grandiflorus (White Chinese Bellflower), picture by Udo Schröter; CC.

How to Grow Balloon Flower

The seeds of Balloon flowers (Platycodon) should be sown on the soil surface. This can be done in either spring or summer.

They have a preference for a rich and moist soil. ideally Platycodon likes to grow in sunny or partially shaded areas of the garden. It is important that the location has good drainage.

If starting off indoors, do so about 7 or 8 weeks in advance. It should take seeds about two to four weeks to germinate at 20 degrees Celsius (68°F).

The seedlings should be transplanted with great care into the garden at the end of spring. Space at about 25 cm to 75 cm (10 to 30 inches) apart, depending upon the size of the Platycodon variety.

Caring for Platycodon

It is quite easy to care for Platycodon. They like a moist soil so keep well watered, and dead head the flowers to extend the period in which they bloom.

As they are very delicate plants it may be wise to carefully stake larger varieties.

It is best to propagate plants by taking cuttings in the spring or growing from seeds. Although the plants can be propagated by division, this can often damage the plant.

Common Questions

How many members does the Platycodon genus contain?

The Platycodon genus is a monotypic genus containing only one species.

Do Platycodon members make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Platycodon grandiflorus is popular for its large, balloon-like buds that open to reveal star-shaped flowers. It's great for borders and rock gardens.

Which Platycodon species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The only grown species is the Balloon Flower.

Are Platycodon plants fragrant?

Platycodon plants are not particularly known for their fragrance, but rather their beautiful and distinctively shaped flowers.

What is the perfect location to grow Platycodon?

Platycodon prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained, loamy soil. They're fairly resilient, handling cooler climates well.

Is Platycodon invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Presently, Platycodon plants are not classified as invasive in the United States. They're typically well-behaved in the garden.

How do I remove Platycodon plants from my garden?

To remove Platycodon from your garden, you can simply dig up the plant, ensuring to remove all of the root system to prevent regrowth.

Summary

The Platycodon genus, a member of the Campanulaceae family, includes the popular perennial known as Balloon Flower. The plant gets its name from its unique, balloon-like buds that open to star-shaped flowers.

Platycodon plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant them in the spring or fall. With their beautiful and unique flowers, they're ideal for borders, rock gardens, or containers.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Platycodon plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Lobelia; Gilia and Campanula plants.