[1] The genus Latin name (Campanula), meaning small bell, refers to the bell-shape of the flower, while the specific name (glomerata) refers to the tight grouping of the flowers at the top of the stem.

This plant can be found in forests or dry grasslands, in scrub and open woodland, in grassy but not too wet places, in the edges of woods and along the margins of roads and trails.

According to WCSP,[3] 15 subspecies are recognized: The plant is widely cultivated in gardens, with flowers in a range of colours including white, pink, blue and purple.

Numerous cultivars have been developed for garden use, including 'Joan Elliott' (with large violet flowers) and the white-flowered 'Schneekrone'.

The vigorous cultivar 'Superba', growing to 60 cm (24 in), with rich blue flowers, has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.