The Viking Bellflower

If you are looking for a great addition to your garden, then you may want to think about adding the Viking Bellflower. Also known as the Campanula Viking, this is a relatively recent hybrid that is now making the rounds. Like most types of bellflowers, the Viking is a part of the Campanula family, and is a fairly forgiving plant. Unlike most types of bellflowers though, this hybrid produces sterile seeds, so will not reproduce beyond your control. Frankly, the Viking bellflower is a perfect choice for gardeners who are looking to add a little bit of delicate color to their gardens, which don't require a lot of special attention.

However, just because the Viking bellflower is a forgiving plant, doesn't mean that you don't need to take care of it. There are still a few things that you can do to ensure that your new flower will not only be around for years to come (wince it is a perennial), but that it will also thrive. Simply follow these simple care guidelines and you can't go wrong.

• Soil requirements. There are really no special soil requirements for the Viking bellflower. All you really need to do is ensure that the soil will drain well, and not retain any excessive moisture.
• Hardiness zones. Ideally, the Viking bellflower will thrive in USDA hardiness zones of 5 through 8. This means that if you live in an area that has an annual low of below -20 degrees Fahrenheit, or an average high of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, then this plant is not for you.
• Watering and sunlight. On the average, the Viking bellflower requires the soil around it to be moist, so regular moderate watering should suffice. Keep in mind though, that while this plant can get by with some slight shade, it prefers to be placed in a location where it can get full sunlight.
• Common pests. Since this is a relatively new hybrid, there are currently no known diseases or pests that this plant is susceptible to. That being said, some potential problems could arise with the common pests or diseases that plague other members of the Campanula family. The most commonly seen pest is the slug. Treat this threat by using slug pellets, or sprinkling coarse sand around the plants.
• General size. The Viking bellflower plant, with the proper care and attention, can easily grow up to 18 inches tall, and about 24 inches wide. This is the average maximum size, though there are always a few exceptions.