'Astra Pink' Balloon Flower (Platycodon)

(Balloon Flower) To begin with, add whimsical texture and dependable summer color with Platycodon ‘Astra Pink’. This compact Balloon Flower is especially loved for its unique balloon-shaped flower buds. At first, each bud slowly inflates before popping open into a charming star-shaped bloom. As a result, medium pink flowers bring playful color and personality to the garden.

From early summer onward, blooms continue well into late summer. Because of this extended bloom period, gardens stay colorful for weeks.

In addition, Platycodon ‘Astra Pink’ features a neat, mounded growth habit. At maturity, plants reach just 8–10 inches tall. Meanwhile, they spread up to 16 inches wide without crowding nearby plants. For this reason, the compact size fits smaller gardens and mixed plantings.

For best results, grow this Balloon Flower in full sun to part sun. Likewise, average to moist, well-drained soil supports healthy growth.

Key features include:

• Medium pink, star-shaped flowers with balloon-like buds

• Long blooming period from early through late summer

• Compact size ideal for borders, containers, and small spaces

• Deer-resistant and easy to grow perennial

• Hardy performance in USDA zones 3–9

Fortunately, this perennial handles cold winters and changing climates with ease. Moreover, it is beginner friendly and requires minimal maintenance once established.

Therefore, it works well in gardens with browsing wildlife. Additionally, ‘Astra Pink’ shines in alpine and rock gardens. It also performs beautifully along pathways and borders. Finally, its compact habit makes it an excellent container plant.