Harebell

Photo by W.Hewlett

(Campanula rotundifolia - Bluebell Family)

POISONOUS - see below

History: "Campanula" is taken from the Latin term "campana" meaning "little bell" in reference to the flower shape. "Rotundifolia" means round-leaved.

Description: The violet-blue, bell-shaped flowers of the Harebell hang down from slender stems of 8 to 20 inches tall. These stems are usually clustered together with basal leaves which are roundish to heart-shaped. These basal leaves wither early and the narrow, pointed stem leaves remain.

Habitat: Harebells are found in dry to moist soil of open hillsides, prairies and valleys. Flowering season is the latter part of June, July and August.

Comments: The name Harebell is believed to have an association with witches who could transform themselves into hares. When a person crossed its path, it was considered bad luck. Due to lack of information regarding this plant's edibility, it should be considered poisonous.