SKU: 00840369420343 Astra Blue Platycodon Dwarf Balloon Flower in 3.5 inch pot

Astra Blue Balloon Flower is a charming dwarf perennial known for its unique balloon-shaped flower buds that burst open into stunning star-shaped blue blooms. This compact variety offers all the beauty of traditional Balloon Flowers in a smaller, garden-friendly size, making it ideal for borders, containers, rock gardens, and pollinator plantings. Blooming from early summer through late summer, Astra Blue produces an abundance of vibrant violet-blue flowers above neat mounds of deep green foliage. Easy to grow and long-lived, this delightful perennial adds color, whimsy, and elegance to sunny garden spaces.

Quantity

Price For Each Unit

1 - 2

$11.95 / each

3 - 4

$11.35 / each

5 - 7

$10.75 / each

8 - 11

$10.16 / each

12 - 17

$9.56 / each

18 +

$8.96 / each

Key Features

Growth Habit:
- Compact upright clump-forming perennial
- Typically grows 6–12 inches tall and 8–12 inches wide
- Dense, tidy growth habit ideal for small garden spaces
Bloom Color:
- Violet-blue to rich blue star-shaped flowers
Fragrance:
- Little to no noticeable fragrance
Wildlife Attraction & Pest Resistance:
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and pollinators
- Deer resistant
- Rabbit resistant
- Generally resistant to pests and diseases
Planting Zones: USDA Zones 3–8
Sun Preferences:
- Full sun to partial shade
- Best flowering occurs in full sun
Drought Tolerance:
- Moderate once established

Planting Instructions (From a 3.5" Pot into the Ground)

1. Choose the Location

Select a location with well-drained soil and at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, containers, and pollinator plantings.

2. Prepare the Soil

Loosen soil 8–10 inches deep.
Incorporate compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

3. Dig the Hole

Dig a hole twice as wide as the 3.5" pot and equal depth.

4. Remove from Pot

Carefully remove the plant and gently loosen any circling roots.
Take care not to disturb the roots excessively, as Balloon Flowers prefer minimal root disturbance.

5. Plant

Place the root ball level with the surrounding soil surface.
Backfill and gently firm the soil around the roots.

6. Water Thoroughly

Water deeply after planting.
Keep soil evenly moist during the establishment period.

7. Mulch

Apply a light layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

8. Spacing

Space plants 10–12 inches apart for mature growth and airflow.

Seasonal Care & Maintenance

Water during prolonged dry periods, especially during flowering.
Deadhead spent blooms to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage additional flowering.
Mark plant locations in spring, as Balloon Flowers emerge later than many perennials.
Cut back stems after frost or leave seed heads for winter interest.
Avoid relocating mature plants due to their deep taproot.

Astra Blue Platycodon Dwarf Balloon Flower is a delightful perennial that combines whimsical balloon-like buds with brilliant blue star-shaped flowers. Its compact size, long bloom season, pollinator appeal, and easy-care nature make it an excellent addition to borders, containers, and sunny perennial gardens.