Campanula 'Birch Hybrid'

I've finally discovered a groundcover that thrives in a challenging spot! I originally planted Campanula 'Birch Hybrid' along the edge of the north-facing border in my front garden, where it receives mostly shade from a large Skimmia and other plants behind it. Despite the limited sunlight, this resilient plant flourished, spreading cheerfully and adorning itself with beautiful lavender-blue blooms in late May. The blooming display lasts for quite some time.

Delighted by its performance, I decided to relocate some of it to another tricky area, specifically a tight spot right by the driveway entrance. This space is constricted on one side by a large boulder and bordered on the other by the concrete driveway. I’ve tried various plants here—pansies, lantana, thyme—and they all struggled. Yet, this Campanula has proven to be the best performer.

The "Birch" in its name comes from a renowned hybridizing nursery in England. It is a cross between the Dalmatian Bellflower (Campanula portenschlagiana) and the Serbian Bellflower (Campanula posharskyana), both of which originate from the Balkans, particularly Croatia. These plants thrive in rocky soil and are excellent candidates for rock gardens.

Now, I'm experimenting with it in a third location. When I first transplant it, the plant often appears unhappy and tends to wilt. You might think there’s no hope for it, but patience pays off. It may take a few weeks, but in my experience, the plant will revive and flourish.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy