H8 in. x W6 in. Blooming in summer among alpine meadows in the European Alps, the bearded harebell is a distinctive species with stems of nodding blue bells with a coat of fine hairs on the interior. Tufts of rough foliage grow strong in the rock garden or in lean scree, combining well with Primula, gentian, and other meadow flowers and alpine grasses. Hardy to Zone 4.

These justly popular rockery plants have differing needs, but are always rewarding. Most spread readily with underground runners or creeping stems; others are saxatile alpines, best grown in deep grit with a gravel collar. In general, they prefer gritty, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.