Canterbury Bells are a classic biennial, known for their elegant, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink and purple. They typically bloom in their second year, producing tall, graceful stems that add a beautiful splash of color from spring through summer. Highly valued by pollinators, they bring both beauty and ecological benefit to flower beds, cottage gardens, and cut flower arrangements.

While primarily grown as a biennial, this hardy plant can behave like a perennial in warmer regions and return year after year with proper care.

Where to Grow Canterbury Bells?
They thrive in zones 4 to 9, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They grow very well in flower beds, borders, and containers, adding height and elegance to the garden.

History and Traditional Uses
Originating from Southern Europe, Canterbury Bells have been cultivated in gardens for centuries. Their bell-shaped flowers have become a symbol of gratitude and constancy, often used in traditional floral arrangements and bouquets.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8–9: Sow in fall or early spring for naturalized growth.
• Zones 5–7: Start indoors in late winter or sow outdoors after the last frost.
• Zone 4: Sow outdoors in spring or mulch heavily in fall to protect young plants.

How to Grow and Harvest Canterbury Bells

• Sowing: Sow seeds 0.5 cm (1/4 in) deep, spacing plants 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in) apart in rich soil.
• Watering: Water regularly to encourage root development, then allow to dry slightly between waterings.
• Care: Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming and limit reseeding if desired.
• Harvest: Cut flowers when they begin to open for long-lasting bouquets.

Tips for Seed Harvesting

• Allow to go to seed: Let some flowers form seed pods.
• Harvest: Pick pods when they are dry and brown, before they open.
• Drying and cleaning: Extract seeds and dry them completely on a clean surface.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container, in a cool, dark place; viable for up to 3 years.

Certified organic by
Islands Organic Producers Association (Certificate No. 1962)