Campanulaceae

Spotted Bellflower

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About five years ago I bought an alluring plant from a roadside stand in the Finger Lakes region of Central New York State.  The “stand” was actually a large cart, laden with perennials that were clearly surplus specimens from someone’s well-stocked garden.  The “someone” was nowhere to be seen.  Among the offerings were gaillardia daisies, … Read more

Beautiful Balloons

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Balloons lift spirits just about any time. On hot, mid-summer days, balloon flowers (Platycodon grandiflorus) provide equal elevating power. Right now in my garden, both blue and white varieties are covered with the puffed, rounded buds that give the plants their common name.  They are in the process of opening into the flattened, bell-like flowers … Read more