CODONOPSIS

These beautiful members of the Campanulaceae family are widespread over much the cool climate areas of Asia. There are over 40 recognised species in the genus but most rarely grown in Australia. The most well known is C.pilosula due to it's use in Chinese medicine, with the name 'poor man's ginseng'.  Codonopsis are mostly hardy perennials climbers requiring a trellis to reach their full potential, however some low 'shrub like' species exist.  The flowers are variable in both shape and colour, many with large flaring bells and others with open 'star like' features. The colour range is normally green to vivid blue with a stunning array of hues in between. They prefer an afternoon shade, well drained, yet moist position in humus rich soil. 

Available May-Aug