Canterbury Bells-Campanula
Symbolism: Gratitude, constancy, humility, and everlasting love. Canterbury bells are often associated with devotion and the quiet strength of enduring affection—making them meaningful in sympathy work, romantic bouquets, and milestone celebrations.
Description: A tall, elegant biennial with upright stems lined in large, cup- or bell-shaped blooms. Flowers may be single or double and appear in shades of soft pink, lavender, violet, blue, and white. The blooms face outward or slightly downward, creating vertical movement and a refined, garden-inspired silhouette.
Named after: The historic city of Canterbury in England. The “bell” refers to the flower’s distinctive bell-like shape.
Latin/Scientific name: Campanula medium (Family: Campanulaceae)
Native to: Southern Europe, particularly Italy and parts of the Mediterranean region.
Flowering period: Late spring to early summer (typically May–July in temperate climates).
Vase life: Approximately 5–7 days with proper conditioning. Budded stems will continue to open in the vase, extending visual longevity.
Popular use in floral arrangements or bouquets:
- Garden-style and European hand-tied bouquets
- Romantic and vintage-inspired wedding work
- Sympathy arrangements (due to its symbolism of gratitude and remembrance)
- Tall centerpieces requiring vertical line and gentle movement
- Spring and early summer seasonal designs
Canterbury bells pair beautifully with roses, delphinium, sweet peas, and other soft-textured florals for a lush, layered effect.
Care tips:
- Recut stems at an angle upon arrival.
- Remove any foliage that will sit below the water line.
- Place in clean, cool water with floral preservative.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Change water every 1–2 days to maintain clarity and prolong vase life.
Pet Toxicity: Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. As always, monitor pets around fresh arrangements.
When in stock in our shops: Usually available year-round.
