How to Grow Canterbury Bell
Wikimedia Commons
Canterbury Bell
Campanula medium
flowerCanterbury Bell is a classic biennial flowering plant known for its large, bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and blue. The plant produces tall spikes of distinctive double or single blooms that are popular in cottage gardens and floral arrangements. It typically grows 2-3 feet tall and blooms in late spring to early summer.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Canterbury Bell in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Canterbury Bell timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Canterbury Bell
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Canterbury Bell blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Canterbury Bell dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8; prefers cooler climates
Sign up free to see if Canterbury Bell grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Canterbury Bell timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with first true leaves appearing within 10-14 days
Provide bright indirect light; keep soil moist; thin seedlings to prevent crowding; maintain cool temperatures (60-65°F)
Rosette Formation (First Year)
6-8 monthsPlant develops a basal rosette of oval, hairy leaves close to the ground; no flowering occurs
Water regularly; apply mulch to retain moisture; no fertilizer needed if soil is adequate; protect from extreme heat and drought
Stem Elongation (Spring of Second Year)
4-6 weeksCentral flower spike emerges from the rosette, growing tall with alternating leaves along the stem
Stake tall varieties if needed; continue regular watering; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; remove dead leaves
Flowering
4-8 weeksLarge bell-shaped flowers open sequentially from bottom to top along the spike; colors range from purple to pink, white, and blue
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming; water during dry spells; stake for support; fertilize every 2-3 weeks
Seed Set & Decline
3-4 weeksUpper flowers fade and dry; seed pods develop and mature; foliage yellows and plant senescence begins
Leave some flowers to dry for seed collection; stop deadheading if seeds desired; reduce watering gradually; plant is typically discarded after flowering
Common Pests
-
Spray foliage with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; ensure adequate humidity
-
and
Handpick in early morning; use slug bait or diatomaceous earth; remove debris sheltering pests
-
Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; use strong water spray; encourage natural predators
-
Handpick in early morning; use beetle traps; apply neem oil if infestation is heavy
-
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur or fungicide at first signs
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryCanterbury Bell flowers are edible and add decorative appeal to salads, desserts, and cake decorations. They have a slightly sweet, delicate flavor and are commonly used in haute cuisine and specialty cooking. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdThe tall, dramatic flower spikes make Canterbury Bells excellent for cut flower arrangements and cottage garden bouquets. Flowers last 7-10 days in a vase when stems are cut at an angle and water is changed regularly. [source]
Dried Flower Crafts
CraftThe seed pods and dried flowers are popular in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and floral crafts. They retain their shape and color well when dried properly. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeCanterbury Bells attract bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, making them valuable for pollinator gardens and ecological landscaping. The abundant nectar and pollen support beneficial insects. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically, Campanula medium has been used in traditional herbalism for mild medicinal purposes, though modern medicinal use is limited and not scientifically validated. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when blooms are fully open but not overblown. Use clean, sharp scissors and cut stems at an angle. For seed collection, allow flowers to dry on the plant, then collect brown, papery seed pods before they shatter. Hang pods upside down in a dry location to complete drying before seed extraction.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Canterbury Bells are named after the pilgrimage route to Canterbury Cathedral in England, and the flower's resemblance to bells is said to represent the bells of the cathedral.
- 🌱 The plant is a true biennial, meaning it requires a full year of growth before flowering in the second year—this makes them excellent for garden succession planning.
- 🌱 In Victorian times, Canterbury Bells were highly prized in cottage gardens and were featured prominently in garden paintings and botanical illustrations of the era.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Canterbury Bell planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Canterbury Bell seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Canterbury Bell timeline →