Platycodon grandiflorus Astra Double Blue (Balloon Flower)

Vigorous and floriferous, Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Double Blue' (Balloon Flower) is a dwarf herbaceous perennial which produces an abundance of fully double, bell-shaped, periwinkle blue flowers, up to 3 in. across (7 cm). Resembling bellflowers (Campanula), they open from large, plump, balloon-like buds which almost beg to be popped. Blooming throughout summer, the upward facing blossoms are held singly or in small clusters atop upright, branched, leafy stems. Adaptable, long-lived and easy of care, this compact Balloon Flower is perfect for cut flowers, containers, or the garden.

• Grows up to 8-10 in. tall (20-25 cm) and 6-10 in. wide (15-25 cm). Does not need staking.
• Performs best in full sun or part shade, in light, fertile, loamy, reliably moist but well-drained soils. Avoid damp sites with heavy, waterlogged soils.
• Virtually disease-free. Watch for slugs and snails. Deer resistant.
• A welcomed addition to beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens or containers. Plant in groups for stronger effect.
• Deadheading spent flowers to prolong the bloom season. Cut back to the base in fall.
• The stems emerge late in the spring and may be accidentally disturbed by impatient gardeners. Marking their location each fall would be a good idea.
• Propagate by seed in pots or in situ in spring. This plant resents disturbance.