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Platycodon
Platycodon
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Platycodon
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Asterales
Family: Campanulaceae
Subfamily: Campanuloideae
Genus: Platycodon
A.DC.
Species:
P. grandiflorus
Binomial name
Platycodon grandiflorus
Synonyms

Campanula gentianoides Lam.
Campanula glauca Thunb.
Campanula grandiflora Jacq.
Platycodon autumnalis Decne.
Platycodon chinensis Lindl. & Paxton
Platycodon glaucus (Thunb.) Nakai
Platycodon mariesii (Lynch) Wittm.
Platycodon sinensis Lem.

Platycodon grandiflorus (from Ancient Greek πλατύς (platús), meaning "flat", and κώδων (kódon) meaning "bell") is a species of herbaceous flowering perennial plant of the family Campanulaceae, and the only member of the genus Platycodon. It is native to East Asia (China, Korea, Japan, and the Russian Far East).[1] It is commonly known as balloon flower (referring to the balloon-shaped flower buds),[2][3] Chinese bellflower,[2] or platycodon.[2]

Description

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Growing to 60 cm (24 in) tall by 30 cm (12 in) wide, it is an herbaceous perennial with dark green leaves and blue flowers in late summer. A notable feature of the plant is the flower bud, which swells like a balloon before fully opening.[4] The five petals are fused together into a bell shape at the base, like its relatives, the campanulas.

Ecology

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Platycodon grandiflorus is a perennial plant which is commonly grown in mountains and fields. It is 40 to 100 centimeters (16 to 39 in) high and has thick roots, and white juice comes out when the stem is cut. Leaves are 5 to 12 centimeters (2.0 to 4.7 in) long, with narrow ends and teeth on the edges.

Flowers bloom purple or white in July and August, with one or several running upward at the end of the circle. The flower crown is divided into five branches in the shape of an open bell.

It lives throughout Japan, China, and eastern Siberia, including the Korean Peninsula.

Cultivation

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Pink flowered form

This plant is hardy down to −40 °C (−40 °F), and can be cultivated in USDA zones 3A to 9b. It dies down completely in winter, reappearing in late spring and flowering in summer. However, plants are widely available from nurseries in full flower from April onwards.

Though the species has blue flowers, there are varieties with white, pink, and purple blooms.[5] In Korea, white flowers are more common. This plant,[6] together with its cultivars 'Apoyama group'[7] and 'Mariesii',[8] have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[9]

Uses

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Culinary

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Korea

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In Korea, the plant as well as its root are referred to as doraji (도라지). The root, fresh or dried, is one of the most common namul vegetables. It is also one of the most frequent ingredients in bibimbap. Sometimes, rice is cooked with balloon flower root to make doraji-bap. Preparation of the root always involves soaking and washing (usually rubbing it with coarse sea salt and rinsing it multiple times), which gets rid of the bitter taste.

The root is also used to make desserts, such as doraji-jeonggwa. Syrup made from the root, called doraji-cheong (balloon flower root honey), can be used to make doraji-cha (balloon flower root tea). The root can be used to infuse liquor called doraji-sul, typically using distilled soju or other unflavored hard alcohol that has an ABV higher than 30% as a base.

In addition, other ingredients include calcium, fiber, iron, minerals, proteins and vitamins.[10]

Medicinal

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The extracts and purified platycoside compounds (saponins) from the roots of Platycodon grandiflorum may exhibit neuroprotective, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-allergy, improved insulin resistance, and cholesterol-lowering properties.[11] Evidence for these potential effects was mainly observed in vitro, with the exception of cholesterol-lowering effects documented in vitro and in rats. The lack of efficacy and limited safety data in humans, however, necessitate further research.

China

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The Chinese bellflower (called 桔梗 in Chinese) is also used in traditional Chinese medicine.

In China, they are used as a cough suppressant and expectorant for common colds, cough, sore throat, tonsillitis, and chest congestion.[11]

Korea

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In Korea, the roots are commonly used for treating bronchitis, asthma, tuberculosis, diabetes, and other inflammatory diseases.[citation needed]

Cultural

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Japan

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The bellflower is called kikyō (桔梗) in Japanese. Traditionally, it is one of the Seven Autumn Flowers. In addition, the "Bellflower Seal" (桔梗紋, kikyōmon) is the crest (kamon) of some clans.

Korea

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Doraji taryeong (Korean: 도라지타령) is one of the most popular folk songs in both North and South Korea, and in China among the ethnic Koreans. It is also a well known song in Japan, by the name Toraji (Japanese: トラジ).[13]

It is a folk song originated from Eunyul in Hwanghae Province. However, the currently sung version is classified as a Gyeonggi minyo (Gyeonggi Province folk song), as the rhythm and the melody have changed to acquire those characteristics.[14]

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Platycodon is a monotypic of herbaceous in the family Campanulaceae, consisting solely of the species Platycodon grandiflorus (Jacq.) A. DC., commonly known as the balloon flower or Chinese bellflower. This plant is native to , including , , Korea, and parts of , where it grows in grassy areas from lowlands to elevations of up to 2,600 meters. Characterized by its upright clumping habit, it reaches heights of 1 to 2.5 feet with lanceolate, toothed blue-green leaves arranged alternately or in whorls. The most distinctive feature of Platycodon grandiflorus is its flower buds, which inflate like small balloons before opening into showy, upward-facing bell-shaped blooms measuring 2 to 3 inches across, typically in shades of purple-blue, though and cultivars exist. These flowers, with five pointed lobes, appear from late spring through summer, often continuing into August, and are attractive to pollinators. Botanically, the genus belongs to the Cyanantheae and exhibits characteristics such as an , , and colporate , with a diploid number of 2n = 18. The plant's tuberous roots are edible and have been used traditionally in . Widely valued as an ornamental, Platycodon grandiflorus thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic loamy soils with medium moisture. It is low-maintenance, deer-resistant, and suitable for borders, rock gardens, containers, and slopes, though it may require staking for taller varieties and is prone to in wet conditions. Propagation occurs via seed or spring division, with seedlings blooming in their first season under optimal conditions. In addition to its horticultural appeal, Platycodon grandiflorus holds significance in , particularly in Chinese herbalism, where its (known as Jiegeng) are employed for respiratory ailments. The plant contains bioactive , such as platycodin D, which have demonstrated , immunomodulatory, and anti-cancer properties in pharmacological studies, including potential efficacy against gastric, lung, and leukemia cells. Evolutionary analyses suggest the genus originated in the Sino-Himalayan region, with dispersal to occurring approximately 16 million years ago.

Taxonomy and description

Taxonomy

Platycodon is a genus within the family Campanulaceae, tribe Cyanantheae, comprising flowering plants classified under the kingdom Plantae, clade Tracheophytes, clade Angiosperms, clade Eudicots, clade Asterids, order Asterales. The genus was established by Augustin Pyramus de Candolle in 1830 in his Monographia Campanularum. Platycodon is monotypic, containing only the species Platycodon grandiflorus (Jacq.) A. DC. This species was originally described as Campanula grandiflora by Nikolaus Joseph von Jacquin in 1777 and later transferred to the genus by de Candolle in the same 1830 publication. Accepted synonyms for P. grandiflorus include Jacq. and Platycodon chinensis Lindl. & Paxton.

Description

Platycodon grandiflorus is a clump-forming herbaceous belonging to the Campanulaceae. It typically grows 30–90 cm tall and 30–45 cm wide, featuring erect, unbranched stems that arise from a system. The leaves are simple, lanceolate to ovate in shape, 2–7 cm long, with toothed margins; they form basal rosettes and are arranged alternately or in whorls along the stems, displaying a hue. The plant produces distinctive flowers emerging from balloon-shaped buds that inflate prior to opening. These buds expand into bell-shaped, five-petaled blooms measuring 5–8 cm wide, most commonly blue-violet in color, though white and pink variants also occur; forms exist as well. The flowers possess an and produce . Flowering takes place from through summer, typically June to , with individual flowers or small clusters borne terminally on the stems. As a perennial, P. grandiflorus features fleshy, fragile roots that support its growth, dying back to the ground in winter and regrowing from the rootstock in spring. It reproduces via self-seeding, with mature seed pods—dehiscent capsules—splitting open to release numerous small, brown seeds. The plant has a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 18.

Distribution and ecology

Geographic distribution

Platycodon grandiflorus is native to , where it occurs across a range of temperate regions. In , the species is distributed across numerous provinces including , , , , northern , , , , , , , , , , , Nei Mongol, , , , eastern , southeastern , and , typically in sunny herb communities and thickets below 2000 meters elevation. It is also found throughout the Korean Peninsula, encompassing both North and South , as well as from in the north to in the south, often on grassy slopes in hills and mountains. In the , populations are present in areas such as and southeastern . The plant has been introduced and naturalized outside its native range, primarily as an ornamental. In , it has escaped cultivation and become naturalized in several states of the and in , , following early introductions in the late . In , P. grandiflorus was established in gardens by the mid-1700s. Historically, the distribution of Platycodon grandiflorus has been influenced by long-standing cultivation in for medicinal and culinary purposes, dating back .

Habitat and ecology

Platycodon grandiflorus thrives in sunny herbaceous communities, thickets, and occasionally forest edges, often on grassy slopes in hills and mountains. It is commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and rocky slopes at elevations typically below 2,000 m in and up to 2,600 m across its native range, tolerating poor, well-drained soils such as sandy or loamy types. In its native East Asian range, the plant plays a role in supporting local pollinators, particularly bees such as bumblebees, through its nectar and pollen resources, and its persistent flowering provides a steady food source for insects. It exhibits no major invasive tendencies but can self-seed in disturbed areas, potentially spreading locally without dominating ecosystems. Adapted to temperate climates with cold winters, P. grandiflorus prefers regions with influences, optimal July minimum temperatures of 19.7–25.3°C, and precipitation of 148.3–271.3 mm in the wettest month; it shows once established. The species faces threats from overharvesting of wild populations for medicinal purposes, leading to , alongside potential habitat shifts due to that may reduce suitable areas by about 3% on average. Conservation status data remains limited, highlighting the need for further monitoring in native ranges.

Cultivation

Growing requirements

Platycodon grandiflorus thrives in full sun to partial shade, where it receives at least six hours of direct daily for optimal flowering, though it tolerates light afternoon shade in hotter climates. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy s that are organically rich and light in texture, as heavy clay can lead to poor root development. It performs best in slightly acidic to neutral with a range of 5.5 to 7.5, and it is highly intolerant of waterlogged conditions, which can cause root damage. This is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, enduring winter lows down to -40°C (-40°F) and tolerating summer highs up to around 30°C (86°F) with adequate moisture. It exhibits winter , dying back to the ground in colder regions before emerging in spring, and blooms from to early fall. Watering should be moderate, with young plants needing consistent moisture to establish —about 1 inch per week—while mature specimens are more drought-tolerant once established, requiring only during prolonged dry spells. demands are low; the plant benefits from a single application of balanced, slow-release or in early spring, but excessive feeding can reduce blooming. Applying a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base helps retain , suppress weeds, and protect during winter. Common pests include slugs and snails, which can damage foliage and buds, particularly in moist environments. Diseases are minimal but , caused by fungi such as species, poses a in poorly drained or overwatered soils. Overall, Platycodon grandiflorus is deer-resistant due to its somewhat bitter foliage, though young shoots may still attract browsing in high-deer areas.

Propagation and varieties

Platycodon grandiflorus, commonly known as balloon flower, can be propagated through several methods, with seed sowing being the most common approach for home gardeners. Seeds are typically sown in spring after the last , requiring light for and thus should not be covered with ; they germinate in 10 to 15 days at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). While no pretreatment is strictly necessary, cold stratification—storing moist in the for 4 to 6 weeks—can improve rates, particularly for spring-sown . propagated from may take 1 to 2 years to bloom if direct-sown, but can flower in the first year if started indoors early, as they initially focus on root development. Vegetative propagation is also feasible but more challenging due to the plant's fragile, fleshy . Division of established clumps is recommended every 3 to 4 years in early spring to rejuvenate the plant and prevent overcrowding; carefully dig up the clump, separate sections with healthy and shoots using a sharp , and replant immediately in well-prepared soil. Basal cuttings can be taken in late spring from new shoots at the base of the plant, rooting them in a moist, well-drained medium under high ; success rates are moderate, and this method preserves the exact characteristics of the parent plant. divided or rooted sections requires gentle handling to minimize root disturbance. The wild type of Platycodon grandiflorus features single, violet-blue flowers on upright stems reaching 60 cm (24 inches) in height. Numerous cultivars have been developed for ornamental use, offering variations in height, flower form, and color. The 'Astra' series includes compact plants (15 to 30 cm tall) with double or semi-double flowers in shades of blue ('Astra Double Blue'), pink ('Astra Pink'), and white, ideal for borders and containers. 'Mariesii' is a dwarf cultivar (30 cm tall) known for its large, single white or blue flowers and vigorous blooming habit, while selections like 'Fuji Blue' produce intense purple-blue blooms on sturdy stems. Several cultivars, including the species and 'Mariesii', have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit for their reliability and performance in gardens. Platycodon grandiflorus has a long history of cultivation, originating in where it has been grown for medicinal and culinary purposes for over a millennium, as documented in traditional Chinese texts. Jesuit missionaries introduced seeds to in the , with the plant appearing in English gardens by 1759 and becoming a popular ornamental by the early through for flower color and form in and later .

Uses

Culinary uses

The roots of Platycodon grandiflorus, known as doraji in , are the primary edible part and are typically harvested from plants aged 2–3 years in spring or autumn, after which they are peeled to remove the bitter outer skin and sliced for preparation. Young leaves are occasionally boiled and incorporated into salads for their mild flavor. In Korean cooking, doraji roots feature prominently in various dishes, often blanched or parboiled to reduce bitterness before seasoning. They are a common ingredient in , where sliced roots add texture to the mixed rice bowl alongside vegetables and sauce. preparations involve sautéing the roots with , , garlic, and to create a seasoned () served cold or at room temperature. Doraji also appears in gamja-jeon, potato pancakes mixed with chopped roots for added crunch, and , a hand-torn where the roots contribute to the medley in the . Candied doraji roots, simmered in , serve as a sweet or snack, while infusions of the roots are sometimes added to for a subtly spirit. Nutritionally, fresh doraji roots are low in calories and valued for their content, which supports digestive health, along with minerals and vitamins. In other Asian regions, doraji roots see limited but traditional use; in , they are occasionally stir-fried as a or brewed into herbal teas, while in , the roots may be pickled or added to vinegared dishes. Modern Western adaptations include incorporating sliced doraji into fresh salads for its crisp texture and mild bitterness.

Medicinal uses

The roots of Platycodon grandiflorus, referred to as Jie Geng in (TCM) and Do-gak or Doraji in Korean traditional medicine, have been utilized for over two millennia to address respiratory conditions. Traditionally, the plant functions as an expectorant and antitussive agent, helping to expel phlegm, suppress coughs, and relieve symptoms of , , , and lung abscesses, with documented use in TCM formulas since the (circa 200 BCE). In , it is prescribed for phlegm-related issues, abscesses, and , while in Korea, it treats colds, , and . The standard dosage involves 3–10 g of dried root per day, typically prepared as a . Key bioactive compounds in the roots include triterpenoid such as platycodins A–D, which comprise approximately 2–3% of the dry weight, alongside (e.g., and ) and phenolic acids. These constituents underpin the plant's pharmacological mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of pathways, activity to reduce , and neuroprotective properties observed in preclinical models. Contemporary research supports traditional applications while exploring broader therapeutic potential. In vitro studies reveal anti-cancer effects, such as platycodin D-induced and arrest in , colon, and cells through pathways like PI3K/AKT/ and activation. Animal models demonstrate improved function, reduced in respiratory tissues, and amelioration of , though human trials remain scarce and primarily focus on safety. Potential adverse effects include saponin-related stomach upset and, at high doses, liver strain or allergic reactions, necessitating medical supervision.

Cultural significance

In , Platycodon grandiflorus, known as kikyō, is revered as one of the Seven Flowers of Autumn (aki no nana kusa), a traditional grouping celebrated in classical literature since the (710–794 CE). Referenced in the Man’yōshū, Japan's oldest poetry anthology, it evokes themes of seasonal transition and poetic beauty. The flower's star-shaped blooms symbolize eternal love, dignity, and farewell, with its refined bluish-purple hue (kikyō-iro) influencing traditional aesthetics. The kikyō motif appears in ikebana, the art of flower arrangement, where it features in autumn compositions to highlight impermanence and harmony with nature. It also serves as a prominent family crest (mon) for samurai clans, including the Toki and Akechi, during the Sengoku period (1467–1603 CE), embodying revolution, defiance, and tragedy—qualities exemplified by figures like , who used a pale blue variant. These crests adorned flags, armor, and architecture, embedding the flower in martial and artistic heritage. In Korea, the plant is called doraji and inspires the beloved folk song "Doraji Taryeong," a minyo from the Gyeonggi-do region dating to the , which narrates the toil of its amid themes of longing and unfulfilled promises. A poignant underscores this: a devoted girl named Doraji awaits her absent relative for over two decades, dying on a hillside where violet-blue flowers bloom in her memory, transformed by a mountain spirit. Symbolizing resilience, , and enduring hope, doraji reflects the perseverance of the Korean people in . The song integrates into pansori, Korea's narrative singing tradition, with modern adaptations blending it into jazz-folk performances, as in SinaKowan Duo's 2017 album reinterpreting Gyeonggi-do tunes for contemporary audiences. These renditions preserve its emotional depth while reaching global listeners through recordings and live shows. In , where it is known as Jie Geng, the plant's cultural role is primarily tied to its long-standing use in . Beyond , Platycodon motifs have permeated global culture via Japanese anime and manga, often denoting eternal or bittersweet love, though it lacks major symbolic resonance in the West.

References

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