The balloon flower typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.
balloon flower
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Semi-Double Blue'
The balloon flower, Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Semi-Double Blue', is an eye-catching choice for any garden. The large, star-shaped blooms open as light blue-mauve, bell-shaped calyces that seem to have a life of their ownâgrowing and flourishing during the summer months. The buds look like small hot-air balloons, giving the plant its name. It grows to a height of 30-90 cm with dark green, pointed and lobed leaves, and it is tough, hardy and very easy to maintain. Itâs ideal for beds, borders and as a cut flower, and even when the blooms fade away, the pleasantly delicate foliage provides a stunning backdrop all season long.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 8
Flowers:
Blue Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Balloon flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Semi-Double Blue') should be watered when the top inch or so of soil has become dry. An average mature plant should be watered fully every 7-10 days. During the hotter months, water more frequently, when the top of the soil is dry to the touch. During cooler months, water less often, whenever the top inch or so of soil is dry. Balloon flowers love moist soil so make sure to water deeply and thoroughly each time.
sunlight
Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Semi-Double Blue') does best when planted in full sunlight in well-drained soil. It needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to bloom and thrive. While it is tolerant of partial shade, the plant will not flower without a minimum amount of direct sunlight. Morning sunlight is particularly important as it helps the plantâs stems grow straight.
pruning
Balloon flower should be pruned every spring, when the plant begins to grow anew. Pruning should be light, removing any dead, diseased or damaged branches. To encourage bushier growth, prune stems just above a leaf or a bud. If pruning heavily, trim the plant back to 1/3 to 1/4 of its size, or about 6 â 8 inches off the top. This will help promote more flowers and full growth when the plant blooms. Finally, deadhead individual flowers when they wilt away to ensure the plant conserves energy to produce more flowers during its blooming season.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
The balloon flower typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Is it easy to propagate balloon flowers from seeds?
Propagating balloon flowers from seeds is possible but it is not particularly easy. Because the seeds are rather small compared to the size of the flower, it can be hard to collect, sow, and properly cultivate them. Additionally, the seed does not experience a long shelf life, so it is important to sow them immediately after collection. The seeds also have a long germination time which can be a tricky process, and even then, balloon flowers may take up to 2 to 3 years to start blooming once planted.
Is it possible to grow balloon flowers indoors?
Yes, it is possible to grow balloon flowers indoors. Balloon flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus) are herbaceous perennials that can survive in a wide range of temperatures and light conditions, making them suitable for indoor cultivation. While best grown outdoors in zones 4 to 9, they can be grown in bright, indirect light indoors, usually near a south-facing window. Planting the flower in a small pot with well-draining potting soil and watering regularly (but not too often) will help the balloon flower thrive indoors.
Should I remove the faded flowers of balloon flowers?
Yes, you should remove the faded flowers of balloon flowers. Removing the faded flowers encourages the plant to produce more flowers, extends the blooming season, and helps to keep the plant healthy. If you are growing balloon flowers as a cut flower, you may want to consider removing the faded flowers as it may help to extend the season of the flowerâs beauty. Additionally, removing faded flowers can help to prevent the spread of disease or pests.
Could balloon flowers survive in a cold climate?
Balloon flowers can survive in a cold climate, but they may not last as robustly as they would in a warmer climate. While they don't require a lot of care, they may need a little extra attention in a cold climate - like protecting them from the cold winter winds with burlap or lightweight row covers. They prefer a light soil, so adding mulch to their environment can also help them stay warm and happy in colder climates.
Is it possible to grow balloon flowers from cuttings?
Yes, it is possible to grow balloon flowers from cuttings. To do so, take a few cuttings from a healthy, mature plant and remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the cutting into a rooting hormone and then insert it into a container filled with moist potting soil. Cover the container with plastic and keep it warm and moist. With a little bit of luck, the cutting will root in about six weeks and you can then transplant the newly rooted cuttings in their own containers.
Are balloon flowers annuals or perennials?
Balloon flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus) are perennials, meaning that they live for more than one growing season. They are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 8. They are native to China and Japan and are part of the campanulaceae family.
Should I mulch around balloon flowers?
Yes, mulching around balloon flowers is a great way to keep the soil moist and provide additional nutrition. Mulch also helps keep weeds away and can help reduce disease problems. It will also help prevent the plant from drying out, especially in hot weather. Make sure to use organic mulches such as grass clippings or compost, and keep the mulch away from the crown of the plant.
Could balloon flowers be used in a rock garden?
Yes, balloon flowers can be used in a rock garden. These flowers are known for their rosette shaped foliage and star-shaped pink or blue flowers that make them perfect for rock gardens and other harsh growing environments. Plant them in clusters in sunny areas with good drainage to enjoy their blooming beauty, year after year. Low maintenance and drought tolerant, balloon flowers are perfect for bringing color and texture to your rock garden landscape.
