Pet Safe
moderate Care
balloon flower
Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Blue'
The balloon flower (Platycodon grandiflorus 'Astra Blue') is an easy-to-grow, long-blooming perennial boasting attractive deep blue, globular buds that look like puffed balloons. Its airy, bell-shaped flowers, up to 2-3 inches across, have five petals that open wide and remain open on sunny days. In peak bloom season, 'Astra Blue' can turn gardens into a bright and cheerful sight with its star-shaped, bright blue flowers. Relatively drought-tolerant, it is an attractive choice for rock gardens and cut-flower beds.
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
medium
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7Zone 8
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7Zone 8
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Water Every
"3-4" days
Sun Needs
partial-shade
Growth
Low
Care Level
Low
Watering Schedule
Frequency
Day 1"3-4" daysDay NaN
💧 Water every "3-4" days
Seasonal Adjustments
Adjust watering frequency based on temperature, humidity, and season. Water more frequently in summer and less in winter.
Pro Tip: Check soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger 1-2 inches into the soil—if it's dry, it's time to water!
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Pruning Time
How to Propagate
Division
Divide root ball in spring, replant sections immediately
Cutting
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Layering Propagation
Bend stem to soil surface, cover lightly, roots form in 4-6 weeks
Plant Characteristics
Drought Tolerant
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Forgetful waterers
- •Homes with pets
- •Low-maintenance gardens
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
Bloom Seasons
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Enjoys dappled or limited direct sun—about 2–4 hours of morning or late afternoon light and protection during peak midday sun.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil is dry.