This herbaceous perennial is native to the northern Balkans. It quickly spreads from the root crown by prostrate stems to form an attractive ground cover and will cascade down a wall and over rocks. The medium to dark green leaves are small (1.5″ long) and rounded with wavy margins. In warm climates the plants may be evergreen. The star-shaped flowers are ½-1” wide and lilac blue. They are borne in loose clusters along the stem in spring. Plants do best in areas where night temperatures are not above 70o F. in summer. Serbian bellflower is an excellent choice for rock gardens, informal rock walls, and path edges. Several cultivars are available that vary in leaf size, color (including white) and density and height.
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Bloom: Star-shaped, lilac blue flowers ½-1” wide in spring and early summer
Size: 8-12” H x 12” W
Light: Morning sun with some afternoon shade
Soil: Average, mediummoist, well-dained
Hardiness: Zones 3-7
Care: Low maintenance
Pests and Diseases: Snails, slugs can be a problem
Propagation: Seed, division in early spring or fall
Companion plants: Coral bells, lambs ear, Geum.
Karen Meyers