Purple balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Blue') 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. |
