Campanula parryi

Campanula parryi, Parry's Bluebells - panoramio

Campanula parryi, commonly known as Parry's bellflower or Parry's harebell, is a species of flowering plant in the Campanulaceae family, native to the western United States. It is named after Charles Christopher Parry, a 19th-century botanist who contributed significantly to the understanding of North American flora. This perennial plant is admired for its striking blue to violet bell-shaped flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, attracting a variety of pollinators including bees and butterflies.

Description

Campanula parryi grows to a height of 15 to 60 cm (6 to 24 inches), with slender stems that rise above the foliage. The leaves are lanceolate to ovate, mostly basal, with smaller, alternate leaves along the stem. The flowers are the most distinctive feature of this species, with their deep blue to violet, occasionally white, bell-shaped corollas that hang singly or in loose clusters from the stem tips. Each flower is 2 to 5 cm (0.79 to 1.97 inches) long, with a five-lobed rim and a hairy interior.

Habitat and Distribution

This species is found in a variety of habitats, from moist meadows to open forests and alpine regions. It is native to the Rocky Mountains and surrounding areas, with its range extending from Colorado and Utah to Arizona and New Mexico. Campanula parryi prefers well-drained soils and can often be found at elevations from 2,000 to 3,500 meters (6,500 to 11,500 feet).

Cultivation and Uses

While not as commonly cultivated as some other members of the Campanula genus, Campanula parryi can be grown in gardens where it adds a splash of color to perennial borders and wildflower meadows. It requires full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens and xeriscaping. Its nectar-rich flowers are beneficial for attracting pollinators to the garden.

Conservation

As of now, Campanula parryi does not face any immediate threats that would warrant its inclusion on any endangered species list. However, like many native plants, it could be susceptible to habitat loss and the effects of climate change. Conservation efforts to preserve its natural habitats are essential for ensuring the species' long-term survival.

Gallery

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See Also

• Campanulaceae
• Flora of the Western United States
• Pollinator
• Xeriscaping