Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorous)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Perennial

Balloon Flower
Platycodon grandiflorous


 
Features
Attractive long lived perennial with glossy green foliage and unique balloon shaped buds opening to star shaped flowers.  
 
Culture
Well drained moist soil in a full sun to very light shade location 
 
Cultivars

'Fairy Snow' 6-12 inches tall, white flowers

'Hakone Blue' 2 feet tall, blue flowers

'Mariesii' 18-24 inches tall, blue flowers

'Sentimental Blue' 6-12 inches tall, blue flowers

'Shell Pink' 18-24 inches tall, pink flowers

 
 
Mature Height
6 Inches - 2 Feet
 
Size
Small
Medium
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
3 - 8 
 
Bloom Color
Blue
Pink
White
 
 
Bloom Season
July - August
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

none serious
 
Additional Notes
Plants are slow to establish. Prefer a high organic matter soil. Rarely needs division. Difficult to transplant. Very slow to emerge in the spring. Tall cultivars may require staking. Attractive clean foliage.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic