Campanula poscharskyana is the botanical name for a perennial plant in the bellflower family, also called Serbian bellflower, trailing bellflower, and Poscharsky’s bellflower after a 19th-century German horticulturist. This low-growing plant spreads rapidly and produces abundant dark lavender or white, star-shaped flowers. Considered a hearty plant, it adds profuse color to rock gardens, pathways, and hanging baskets.
It blooms from spring to late summer, but might continue to produce flowers in fall in areas with mild winters. The bright flowers measure about 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) across and emit a light scent. Campanula poscharskyana makes a good ground cover because it only grows between 1 and 3 feet tall (about 0.3-1 meter). The dark green, round leaves might remain green all winter in warmer climates.
Considered a drought-resistant plant, Campanula poscharskyana grows well atop walls where it will cascade downward. It also makes a good border plant, but might require frequent pruning to control its quick growth. Regular shaping keeps the bellflower neat and prevents it from becoming spindly.
This species needs little maintenance, but grows best when regularly watered and fertilized. Successful gardeners add fertilizer every couple of weeks by dissolving it in water or applying it to the soil. Bellflower flourishes in partial shade, but direct sunlight during the summer might burn the leaves and flowers. Campanula poscharskyana grows fine in sandy soil, but will take root and grow faster in earth with neutral or alkaline properties.
Disease is rare among this species of bellflower, but rust, mildew, or blight could occur. Gardeners might notice snails or slugs attracted to the plant; they can be plucked off or treated with pesticides. Aphids, spider mites, and other pests can be controlled with organic or chemical products.
Flies, beetles, and bees pollinate bellflowers, with male and female flowers on the same plant, which makes it capable of self-pollination. Campanula poscharskyana spreads through seeds and underground root runners. Plants can be divided in the spring and fall, and relocated. Seedlings should sprout within a few weeks and planted outdoors when no threat of frost exists.
The Siberian bellflower is one of hundreds of varieties in the species. It is native to the Balkan Mountains in southeastern Europe, and commonly seen growing wild in rocky areas of central and southern England. Its edible leaves and flowers give salads a bit of color and a sweet taste. Some people cook the leaves before eating because they tend to be tough.