Purple balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Blue') picture

Purple balloon flower picture

This purple balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Blue') picture came from our garden. We currently grow two varieties of balloon flowers: Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Blue' and Platycodon grandiflorus 'Sentimental Blue'. Some common names for this flower are balloon flower, Chinese balloon flower, Chinese bellflower and Japanese bellflower. They produce beautiful lavender blue blooms and, if you look real close, you can see in the center of the bloom, it looks like a star sapphire. The balloon flower gets its name from its flower buds. They puff up and look like small balloons before they open.

This balloon flower does best in full sun to part sun and likes slightly acidic soil. Transplanting or dividing the balloon flowers is not recommended because they grow with a tap root that grows straight down and deep, making it difficult to move without damaging the roots. We've never tried growing them from seeds but I have read that they are supposed to be easily grown from seed. They are deer resistant. They attract bees and butterflies, too.

Plant Type - Perennial Light - Full sun to partial sun
Zones - 3 to 8 Size - 6" to 12" high
           8" to 12" wide
Bloom time - June to August Tips - Deadheading produces new blooms
    Considered a fast growing plant
       Slugs and snails can be a problem.

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