Star of Bethlehem (Campanula isophylla) – Flowering plants

Star of Bethlehem (Campanula isophylla) is a trailing perennial, flowering plant. It can grow up to 6 – 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It has bright green, heart-shaped, toothed leaves. The green stems tumble down the sides of pots. If stems or leaf stalks are broken they ooze a milky white sap with a distinctive, but not unpleasant, scent. The blossoms are star-shaped and 3.5 cm across. The flowers are either blue, white, or mauve. The blossoms appear in late summer to autumn. Each flower lasts for 3-4 days and flushes of flowers are continuous when in season, sometimes so prolific that they completely obscure the foliage. Star of Bethlehem is a perfect plant for use in hanging baskets and raised pots.

Scientific classification:

Family: Campanulaceae
Genus: Campanula
Species: C. isophylla

Scientific Name: Campanula isophylla
Common Names: Italian bellflower, Star of Bethlehem, Falling stars and Trailing campanula.

How to grow and maintain Star of Bethlehem (Campanula isophylla):

Light:
It thrives best in bright indirect light. Some direct sun in winter is fine.

Soil:
It grows best in moist but well-drained soils of any type that are enrichened with plenty of organic matter.

Water:
Water thoroughly, keep the soil moist, but not soggy while the plant is growing and flowering. Soggy soil will cause root rot. After flowering, allow the soil to become almost dry between waterings.

Temperature:
It prefers cool to an average temperature of 45°F – 65°F / 7°C – 18°C. Keep your Campanula plant away from doorways and air vents. Hot or cold drafts will cause dry, shriveled leaves and may cause flower buds to drop.

Humidity:
It prefers average indoor (around 40% relative humidity). High humidity can lead to gray mold on leaves. Cut off any affected areas and treat the plant with a fungicide.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize every two weeks spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation:
It can be easily propagated by seed or by cuttings. Sow seeds in spring. Take 3-inch stem tip cuttings in spring or early summer and root them in water or moist potting mix.

Pests and Diseases:
Star of Bethlehem has no serious pest or disease problems. Sometimes susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite, slugs, snails or vine weevil. Fungus diseases sometimes occur if the soil retains too much water or if the plant is kept in excessively humid conditions.