Canterbury Bells – Classic Cottage Garden Blooms
Canterbury Bells (Campanula medium) are charming biennials that bring old-fashioned beauty to any garden. Their bell-shaped blooms appear in shades of blue, pink, purple, and white, creating a graceful display from late spring to early summer. These cottage garden favorites thrive in full sun or partial shade and attract bees and butterflies. With their tall stems and soft colors, Canterbury Bells add both height and nostalgia to borders and cutting gardens.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for cottage-style gardens, borders, and mixed flower beds
Ideal for pollinator gardens and cutting gardens
Lovely along fences, pathways, or grouped in drifts
Pairs beautifully with foxglove, delphinium, and columbine for layered vertical color
Planting Tips - Canterbury Bells
Plant in full sun or partial shade for the best flower production
Choose rich, well-drained soil and add compost before planting
Space plants 12–15 inches apart to improve airflow
Water regularly during dry periods, but avoid soggy soil
Allow a few blooms to go to seed for natural reseeding next year
Mulch lightly to help keep roots cool and soil moist
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Campanula Medium |
| Variety Name: | Med. Calycanthema Cup & Saucer Mix |
| Height: | 35″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 4-10 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Plant Classification: | Biennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring |
| Bloom Season: | Spring – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Deadhead for continuous rebloom |
| Bloom Duration: | 2-3 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Fertile, moist, well-draining soils |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Canterbury Bells
Few blooms: Usually caused by too much shade or overcrowding — thin or move plants
Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering
Yellow leaves: Often from poor drainage — loosen soil or amend with compost
Short lifespan: Canterbury Bells are biennial; replant or let them self-seed each year
FAQ - Campanula Medium
Q: Are Canterbury Bells annuals or perennials?
A: They’re biennial — growing leaves the first year and blooming the second — but often reseed for continuous color.
Q: Will Canterbury Bells grow in shade?
A: Partial shade is fine, but full sun gives the best blooms.
Q: Do Canterbury Bells attract pollinators?
A: Yes, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds visit the bell-shaped flowers often.
Q: Can I cut Canterbury Bells for vases?
A: Definitely! Their long stems and soft colors make lovely cut flowers.