Shade Loving Native Plants of the
United States & Canada
Campanulastrum americanum (L.) American Bellflower, Tall Bellflower
Photo Credit: Irunan/Photobucket
Native Distribution Map
USDA Symbol: CAAM18
USDA Zones: 4 - 7
Shade tolerance: Shade, Part Shade
Moisture: Moist
Height: 3’ – 6’
Propagation: Bedding plants, plugs, root division
The Tall or American Bellflower is a lovely shade garden candidate. This plant loves rich, moist soils. It blooms from mid-summer to early fall in shades of blue and purple.
This colorful biennial self-sows freely and will be a low maintenance addition to your garden. To call Campanulastrum americanum a bellflower is a misnomer because the flower is not bell-shaped at all, but flat. It has five pointed petals and a pale ring around a large, curved central style.
Hummingbirds love the American Bellflower because of its nectar, and adult butterflies are often interested, if the plant is in a location that receives some sun.
American Bellflower is considered seriously threatened over a range from New York to Louisiana, making it a wonderful conservation plant as well as a backdrop beauty.
Growth requirements: Campanulastrum americanum requires soil that is rich with organic matter. Even moisture is best, but only requires an average amount of water. It prefers a near neutral pH (6.8-7.2) and has a moderate tolerance of calciferous soils.
Benefits: The American Bellflower is highly ornamental in masses. Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Excellent cut flower.
Care and Maintenance:
- Amend soil with compost or humus before planting.
- Pinch off apical bud occasionally to keep a shorter, more compact plant.
- Provide even moisture, but not too wet.
- Water sparingly by hand during drought conditions.
- Mulch well to maintain moisture.
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