Campanula rapunculus
Rapunzel bellflower
Common names: Rapunzel, Little Rapunzel
Photo: Hectonichus · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
Campanula rapunculus, known as the rapunzel bellflower, is an ancient root and leafy vegetable that has largely fallen out of favor. It is a biennial: in its first year it forms a rosette of leaves around a spindle‑shaped, white root; in its second year it produces tall flower spikes bearing pale violet bell‑shaped blooms. The root tastes nutty and slightly sweet, while the young leaves are mild and can be eaten raw in salads. Historically common in peasant gardens, it was displaced by radishes and turnips. Today it is a charming rediscovery for small gardens and home gardens, offering high ornamental value during the flowering season.
Care instructions
The rapunzel bellflower prefers loose, humus‑rich soil in a semi‑shaded to sunny spot. Keep the soil evenly moist during the seedling stage; thereafter it is remarkably tolerant of drought and requires little watering. In the first year, allow the rosette to form early so the roots can strengthen. Regularly remove weeds to ensure the rosette receives adequate light. Apply a light mulch layer over the winter to protect the roots from frost, allowing harvest into early spring.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, lime-loving, humus-rich, lean
Feeding
Light feeder
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