Japanese Lady Bell

(Adenophora triphylla)

Japanese Lady Bell (Adenophora triphylla)

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Summary

Adenophora triphylla, commonly known as Japanese lady bell, is a perennial herb native to the understory of temperate forests, mountain slopes, and meadows across the Korean Peninsula, Japan, and China. It can grow up to 39 inches in height and is characterized by its thick, white, carrot-shaped taproot. The plant features oval, serrated leaves that are green and sharply pointed. During the flowering season, which occurs in late summer, it produces bell-shaped, blue to violet flowers that are hermaphroditic and pollinated by insects, adding to its ornamental value.

Japanese lady bell is valued for its delicate flowers and is used in shaded garden areas, woodland plantings, and borders. It thrives in warm conditions with partial sun to light shade and prefers alkaline, well-drained, slightly moist or peaty soil. The plant is hardy to about −20°C, making it suitable for cultivation in many temperate regions. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it may require protection from slugs and snails, which can damage the foliage. In traditional Korean medicine, the roots, which contain saponins and triterpenes, are used for treating respiratory issues and are believed to have antifungal, expectorant, and cardiotonic effects. However, gardeners should be cautious as the plant can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Temperate forest understory, mountain slopes, and meadows

Other Names

Common Names: Ladybells, Lun Ye Sha Shen, Nan Sha Shen, Nan Jing Tian Kui

Scientific Names: , Adenophora triphylla, Adenophora hakusanensis, Adenophora insularis, Adenophora kurilensis, Adenophora kurilensis f. albiflora, Adenophora kurilensis subsp. albiflora, Adenophora obtusifolia, Adenophora pereskiifolia subsp. japonica, Adenophora pereskiifolia var. japonica

GBIF Accepted Name: