Platycodon grandiflorus 'Fuji Blue'

This plant has balloon-shaped buds that pop into bell-shaped flowers that are an intense deep blue. The flowers are large and above the simple green leaves. It is an easy-going plant that has no real pest or disease problems making it an excellent addition to the garden.

Homeowner Growing Tips: Grow in sun or partial shade. Balloon flowers prefer fertile, moist, well-drained, loamy soil. Amend with compost before planting. Established plants resent transplanting. Tall stems may require staking; cut back stems by 1/2 in May, to form a more compact plant that resists flopping. Deadhead after flowering. New stems emerge late in spring, so leave old stems in place through winter until new growth appears.