Campanula rapunculoides (Creeping Bellflower), 2023
watercolour on paper, 20” x 14”

A perennial native to Europe and Central Asia, Campanula rapunculoides was originally introduced to North America by European settlers in the nineteenth century as a garden ornamental, valued for its beautiful purple bellflowers. Even now, it is occasionally misidentified and sold by nurseries under other common names, or included in popular wildflower seed mixes. To prevent new infestations, never purchase or plant wildflower mixes that do not list the species on the packet.

Until recently, creeping bellflower was designated as Noxious under Alberta’s Weed Control Act, requiringproperty owners to manage infestations and limit further spread. In January 2026, the province removed creeping bellflower from the list of regulated weeds. This decision should not imply that the plant is no longer a problem; rather, it reflects how extensively creeping bellflower has established itself throughout Alberta, making it nearly impossible to control. 

Creeping bellflower reproduces both by seed and creeping rhizomes, and spreads aggressively. Its roots travel underground and can extend considerable distances beneath concrete, while a single plant may produce up to 15,000 seeds annually. Even small fragments of root can regenerate into new plants, making infestations difficult to control.

Despite its bad reputation, all parts of creeping bellflower are edible. Young leaves and shoots are high in vitamin C and may be eaten fresh or cooked, much as you would prepare spinach or other leafy greens. The roots can be eaten raw or cooked—they are an excellent addition to stir-fries.

Forage only in areas where you are confident plants have not been treated with herbicides or pesticides. If you are not certain of a plant's identity, do not harvest or consume it.