The History of Creeping Bellflower

The History of Creeping Bellflower in Minnesota

How one garden escape turned into a neighborhood menace

Creeping Bellflower (Campanula rapunculoides) might look delicate with its purple, nodding flowers, but it’s one of the most aggressive and persistent weeds in Minnesota.

Where it came from

Native to parts of Central and Eastern Europe, Creeping Bellflower was first brought to North America in the 1800s as a garden ornamental. Early settlers valued it for its showy blooms and ability to survive tough conditions. By the late 19th century, it had already escaped cultivation and was spreading on its own across several states and provinces. It also is an edible plant; this might have contributed to its spread.

“Campanula rapunculoides was introduced to North America from Europe and Asia, likely as an ornamental and/or accidental contaminant in seed or soil imports.”
— USDA Plant Guide; Minnesota Wildflowers

How it spread so far

Creeping Bellflower’s invasion across Minnesota wasn’t just natural. People helped. It was sold in nurseries for decades, often misidentified as “Bluebell” or grouped with other Campanulas. It was also passed between gardeners who didn’t realize what they were sharing.

“This plant is still sometimes available through nurseries, despite its invasive nature. Once introduced, it is extremely difficult to eradicate.”
— Minnesota Wildflowers

Contaminated topsoil, mulch, and potted plants have further accelerated its spread.

Where it’s a problem

The worst infestations are now found in residential neighborhoods and urban gardens. Common hotspots include:

• Boulevard strips and curb lawns

• Hostas, daylily, and iris plantings

• Woodland edges and shade gardens

• Neglected or unmaintained beds

Creeping Bellflower is especially common in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Stillwater, and nearby suburbs. Once it appears, it often spreads to multiple neighboring yards within a single season.

We need to act NOW to keep it out of our parks. Although some in Minnesota are already lost to Bellflower and cannot likely be saved, the majority of our parks are not lost yet.