Balloon Flower Seeds

Official Name: Platycodon grandiflorus

General Description: Platycodon grandiflorus is a species of perennial flowering plant of the family Campanulaceae and the only member of the genus Platycodon (from Greek "πλατυκώδων", meaning 'a broad bell'). This species is known as platycodon or Chinese bellflower. Depending upon the region, it is also referred to as the Japanese bellflower, common balloon flower, or balloon flower. It is native to East Asia (such as China, Korea, Japan, and East Siberia) and bears big blue flowers, although varieties with white and pink flowers are in cultivation. In Korea, white flowers are more common.

The root of this species (radix platycodi) is used extensively as an anti-inflammatory in the treatment of coughs and colds; in Korea the plant is known as doraji (도라지) and its root, either dried or fresh, is a popular ingredient in salads and traditional cuisine. However, doraji (Chinese bellflower) should not be confused with Korean bellflower. Chinese bellflower (called 桔梗 in Chinese) is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

The plant is also a popular garden ornamental. It is hardy to USDA plant hardiness zone 3 and requires little care.

How to grow:

Seeds can be directly sown in the garden or started indoors in early spring. It is not necessary to cover seeds; simply moisten the area and within a couple weeks you should have sprouts. Thin these to about a foot apart. Generally, balloon flowers bloom within the same season they are sown. Not only are they easy to grow, but these plants are easy to care for as well. If desired, they can be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in spring. From there, you simply water as needed. With exception to occasional bouts of slugs or snails, balloon flower pests are few. Basically, all you’ll need to do for these plants is sit back and enjoy these long-blooming plants throughout summer. Of course, they may require staking if falling over. You can also add them to cut flower arrangements. Since the succulent stems have milky sap, you’ll need to lightly singe the cut ends with a candle (or match) immediately after cutting to make them last longer. Balloon flower plants don’t really like being disturbed; and although division can be done, it’s often difficult. Therefore, propagation by seed is better or cuttings can be taken in spring, if desired.

Benefits: Roots of balloon flower (jie geng in Chinese) are used to treat coughs, sore throats, and other respiratory disorders, as well as toothache and fatigue. They are thought to work by dilating the bronchial vessels; a constituent called platycodigenin thins and helps eliminate phlegm.