Canterbury bells

American  

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. a plant, Campanula medium, cultivated for its showy, bell-shaped violet-blue, pink, or white flowers in loose clusters.

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Etymology

Origin of Canterbury bells

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

Wildflower Hill at the Theodore Payne Foundation Nursery is thriving with a few species of phacelia, including lavender-blue lacy phacelia and violet Canterbury bells.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

A premiere destination for wildflower viewing, Chino Hills State Park is host to wild hyacinth, poppies, Canterbury bells and redmaids through May.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

If you want to get up close and personal with blankets of goldfields, Canterbury bells, filaree and other native plants, your best bet is to take a hike.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2023

"Real Canterbury bells and sunflowers," murmured the King, listening to the jingle of the silver bells on the knight's bridle as he rode away.

From More Tales in the Land of Nursery Rhyme by Marzials, Ada M.

Two heads are thrust among the Canterbury bells, Listening, And fingers clasp and unclasp behind backs In a strain of silence.

From Men, Women and Ghosts by Lowell, Amy