The Encyclopedia Americana (1920)/Rampion

RAMPION, a biennial herb (Campanula rapunculus) of the family Campanulaceæ. It grows about 30 inches tall, has a parsnip-like root, obovate leaves, lilac flowers in a spike or raceme, and very small seeds. It is a native of Asia, Europe and northern Africa, where it is cultivated for its roots and leaves, the former of which are used like radishes, the latter like spinach. The plants do best in light, rich loam, partially shaded and well supplied with moisture but not wet. Since early spring sown plants are likely to run to seed, other sowings should be made in early summer. The plant is less popular in America than abroad.