A hardy perennial with a long history in Chinese medicine, balloon flower is often grown just for the attractiveness of its flowers. 9x9cm pot (8cm depth)
Description
- Low growing garden perennial
- Bell shaped bright blue flowers
- Medicinal uses
- Easy to grow
Although a medicinal herb in other countries, in the UK it is grown more for its attractiveness in the garden. The unopened petals of the flower strongly resemble a hot air balloon and because it is easy to look after, it makes a great choice for children to grow.
Plant Care
- Height: 10-30cm
- Type: Hardy
- Aspect: Sun
- Soil: Any/alkaline
- Flower colour: Blue
- Flowering period: July - August
This striking little herb doesn't grow very tall and tends to come up reliably each year. It likes a soil that doesn't dry out in summer and will grow in full sun and partial shade and in very hot summers enjoys a little shade during the hottest part of the day. It spreads slowly in the ground to form a nice patch or can be grown successfully in a container.
Usage
Native to East Asia the roots of balloon flower, known as jie geng, have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to treat coughs, sore throats and the respiratory system. The root can be dried and then simmered in water to make a herbal tea after its second year.
The roots are widely used in Korea for culinary dishes such as soups and pickles and in Japan the young leaves are added to salads.
The root can be dried and then simmered in water to make a herbal tea after its second year.