Campanula poscharskyana Stella

Campanula porscharskyana 'Stella', also known as Wall Bellflower, is a vigorous species with a creeping habit, suitable for rockeries and walls, in full sun or light shade. It forms a prostrate clump from which long stems emerge in spring and early summer, bearing numerous small star-shaped flowers in lavender blue with a white centre. This wonderful, floriferous ground cover has been awarded by the Royal Horticultural Society.

The 'Stella' Bellflower belongs to the Campanulaceae family and is a cultivar derived from Campanula porscharskyana, native to the Balkan Mountains (Croatia). In the wild, it can be found in rock crevices and high mountain scree. This perennial forms a cushion of 30 cm (12in) in height, with a minimum spread of 60 cm (24in). It spreads through stems that root upon contact with the ground, allowing it to occupy a significant area. Flowering begins in late spring and continues throughout summer, more pronounced in cool climates. The star-shaped flowers measure 2 to 2.5 cm (1in) in diameter and are carried in loose panicles along the hairy stems. The foliage is semi-evergreen to evergreen depending on the climate, medium green and composed of small, hairy, long-stalked, heart-shaped leaves.

Campanula porscharskyana prefers light, and slightly moist soils, it dislikes stagnant moisture that can cause root rot. It needs well-drained soil, even limestone, but slightly humid to thrive. You can plant it in non-scorching sun or partial shade, sheltered from strong winds that can dry it out. This mountain plant does not like excessively hot climates or nights with high temperatures. It thrives during warm summer days tempered by short nights. Its spreading growth can be easily controlled by cutting back the creeping stems. Clean the foliage after flowering and in spring.

Campanula porscharskyana 'Stella' is primarily a rockery plant. It quickly fills the crevices in the paving and walls. It also adapts perfectly to a wild garden. It can be grown in pots, in light and well-drained substrate, and in hanging baskets where it will cascade in bright curtains.