Product description
Commonly known as the Balloon Flower, Platycodon features large balloon shaped buds, which blossom into pretty, cupped blue flowers in summer. These flowers measure around 5cm and are long lasting, only fading towards the end of autumn. The foliage is an attractive blue-green hue with lance shaped serrated leaves growing up the plant stems.
Platycodon has a clump-forming habit and is a relatively low maintenance plant. It enjoys a spot in full sun or partial shade and prefers loamy soil that is moist but well drained. This plant is winter hardy and will withstand harsh winter temperatures, although it is worth mulching in the autumn for added root protection against frost.
Balloon Flowers are popular with flower arrangers and are best cut when still in the bud stage. Be sure to singe the bottom of the stem to prevent the milky sap escaping and to prolong flowering.
Please Note: When purchasing plants please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only - The plant will be supplied in a growers pot. Depending on season, some plants may be pruned back to encourage growth and deciduous plants may arrive without leaves.
Balloon Flower
Platycodon 'Blue'
Platycodon 'Blue'
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Product description
Commonly known as the Balloon Flower, Platycodon features large balloon shaped buds, which blossom into pretty, cupped blue flowers in summer. These flowers measure around 5cm and are long lasting, only fading towards the end of autumn. The foliage is an attractive blue-green hue with lance shaped serrated leaves growing up the plant stems.
Platycodon has a clump-forming habit and is a relatively low maintenance plant. It enjoys a spot in full sun or partial shade and prefers loamy soil that is moist but well drained. This plant is winter hardy and will withstand harsh winter temperatures, although it is worth mulching in the autumn for added root protection against frost.
Balloon Flowers are popular with flower arrangers and are best cut when still in the bud stage. Be sure to singe the bottom of the stem to prevent the milky sap escaping and to prolong flowering.
Please Note: When purchasing plants please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only - The plant will be supplied in a growers pot. Depending on season, some plants may be pruned back to encourage growth and deciduous plants may arrive without leaves.
Give your plants the best start
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Platycodon plants benefit from staking as they grow tall, especially when in bloom. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
How to Water
Water Platycodon regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Once established, the plant is moderately drought-tolerant. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
How to Plant
Plant Platycodon in well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny location. Dig a hole that’s twice the size of the root ball and plant at the same depth. Space plants 30-45cm apart for good air circulation and growth.
