Platycodon grandiflorus, Balloon Flower

1-3 ft. tall, this hardy, cold-tolerant perennial blooms from May to October. Its blue-violet, star-shaped flowers are balloon-like before opening. Quality root is strong, large and white.

Start earlier indoors or direct seed after last spring frost in sandy, well-drained loam. Cover with 1/2" soil and thin to 6-12" when 3" tall. Full sun. Harvest root in autumn, after 2-3 years. Dry in full sun.

Traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat lung ailments. Uses include sore throat, coughs, bronchitis, heaviness in the chest, laryngitis, pleurisy, chest pain and tonsillitis. Often used in soups in Korean cuisine.

Return to Gift Packs