Latin Name: Platycodon grandiflorus
Alternative Names: 
Main Uses: Ornamental, naturescape

Zone Hardiness: Zone 3 perennial
Exposure: Full sun
Height: 45 cm (18 inches)
Flower Colour: Blue 
Flowering Time: Late summer into fall

Germination: 14 - 21 days at 21ºC.
Indoors: 4 seeds per plug, 6 - 8 weeks before the average last frost date
Planting out: Plant in loose, fertile soil once all chance of frost has passed.
Direct Seeding: Best suited to starting indoors ahead of transplanting 
Planting depth: Surface - requires light to germinate
Spacing: Space transplants 25 cm (10") apart

Growing in Containers: Grows very well in larger containers and raised beds, although winter hardiness may be impacted.

Growing in Mixed Planters: Not well suited to mixed planters.

Fertilizing (Containers): Plant in a quality, well-draining organic-based potting mix. Feed regularly with organic fertilizer. An organic bloom-booster fertilizer at the first onset of buds will encourage larger blooms and more abundant flowering.

Watering (Containers): Water containers deeply when the top inch feels dry to the touch. Monitor pots every day or two during very hot weather.

Fertilizing (Garden): Plant in average garden soil, amended with compost on an annual basis. No additional fertilizing is required. 

Watering (Garden): Water deeply to establish. Water mature plants weekly during hot weather.

Beneficials Attracted to this Plant: Many butterflies, as well as bees and other small beneficial insects, love visiting Balloon Flower!

Suitability for Indoors: Not suited for indoors.