Grassy Bells

Native to the Balkans and Southern Italy, this charming alpine forms a clump of narrow, grass-like, deep green foliage. In early summer, it produces clusters of large, upward-facing, funnel-shaped bells of a rich violet-blue, held on short, prostrate stems. The flowers often appear in a 'ring' around the edge of the foliage clump. It is a relatively easy-going plant for a sunny rock garden or raised bed in the UK, provided the drainage is sharp. It develops a deep taproot, which makes it quite drought-tolerant but also means it resents being moved once established. It prefers lime-rich soils and an open, airy position. After flowering, the seed heads can be attractive, and the plant often self-seeds gently if the conditions are right. It is a classic alpine that provides a reliable and profuse display of blue every year, bridges the gap between the early spring bloomers and the later summer-flowering gentians.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, lime-rich soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.