Codonopsis grey-wilsonii syn. Pseudocodon grey-wilsonii

A delight. Lovely hanging blue bells need to be appreciated, use through shrubs or in a pot or obelisque, through trellis. 

From Nepal, Himalaya, Tibet. A twining herbaceous and hardy perennial climber growing from tubers (die down in winter), to a height of 3m, with green heart-shaped leaves and star-shaped rich blue flowers with a mauve centre in summer. A distinct and pleasant 'foxy' or earthy smell. Grows well in dappled shade with even moisture.  Likes rich pickings if it can get them. But round here, it manages without!

It is best used in positions where its subtle, hanging flowers can be appreciated up close. Lovely through shrubs to add summer interest, for example with spring clematis. Fabulous in woodland borders or in the understory. If you have a tropical looking garden, this is amazing wound through the bigger leaved plants. Think of the "Garden of Big Leaves" at Lur Garden in Spain. (see our blog)

Ian and Maggi Young (famous gardening Scots, look them up) grow many of these in a deep polystyrene hypertufa pot, letting them run up their shrubs form there. Make sure they stay moist. They wouldn't mind me directing you to their blog and they freely share their information...

"Now for a flower or two. I was intrigued by these Codonopsis grey-wilsonii (formerly C. forrestii). Follow the progress of the stigma and stamens over a few days. Note stamens gripping the style in the first closeup, then "the stamens start to spread" in the second and "Style splits into three to reveal the stigma. Plants are fascinating when you watch them closely and are not just mesmerised by their beauty." in the third, ready to receive pollen. 

For the collector of the rare and lovely.  Strong tubers, dormant form February.  You can divide the tubers. 

Second image wikimeadia commons