Appalachian bellflower (Campanula divaricata, Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 109 (1803))

Family: Campanulaceae

Author: Michx.

Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 109 (1803)

Year: 1803

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Campanula

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: West Virginia to SE. U.S.A.

Description

The Appalachian bellflower, known scientifically as Campanula divaricata, is a delightful species belonging to the family Campanulaceae. This perennial herb captures the essence of the southeastern United States, flourishing widely from West Virginia down to the genuinely warm climates of the Southeast.

First recorded in the early 19th century by the botanist Michx., specifically cited in Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 109 (1803), the Appalachian bellflower is distinct for its elegant and charming bell-shaped flowers, which characteristically adorn the scenic landscapes of its native regions. These flowers have a subtle yet captivating charm, with a delicate structure that belies their hardiness and adaptability to a variety of slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions usually found in open woodlands, meadows, and along forest edges.

The plant’s elegant growth habit and relatively small stature make it an excellent ground cover or an addition for wildflower gardens designed to mimic its natural habitat. Its foliage provides a lush green backdrop that accentuates the exquisite beauty of its blue to violet blossoms, which typically bloom from late summer into the early fall, creating a picturesque scene in the latter parts of the growing season.

Aside from its aesthetic appeal, Campanula divaricata plays a significant role in supporting local biodiversity. It attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are crucial for maintaining the health and continuity of various ecosystems. This makes it an integral species not only in natural habitats but also in ecological landscaping practices aimed at fostering biodiversity.

In cultivation, the Appalachian bellflower requires minimal maintenance once established. It thrives best in well-drained, moderately moist soils and benefits from partial to full sunlight. Gardeners favor this plant for its low-maintenance nature and its ability to add a touch of natural elegance to garden spaces.

Overall, the Appalachian bellflower is a treasured component of the southeastern flora, offering both ecological benefits and visual satisfaction to botanists, gardeners, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

Eng: appalachian bellflower, small bonny bellflower, southern harebell
En: Appalachian bellflower, Southern harebell, Small bonny bellflower

Synonyms

• Campanula divaricata f. alba (Fosberg)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Oct 1, 2020 by joanna joanna p (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2015 by EOL − kimberlietx (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 9, 2022 by jenny hall (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 19, 2014 by EOL − Matt Rung (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 28, 2021 by Ted Clark (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Sep 8, 2019 by Anja Collette (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 24, 2015 by EOL − Matt Rung (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5410780)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:140221-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Campanula divaricata Michx.)

Specifications

Growth