Aquilegia - Columbine

Aquilegia, otherwise known as Columbine makes a beautiful border plant with it’s bell shaped flowers. The name comes from the Latin word meaning dove as it is thought these flowers resemble a cluster of doves. Some species of this flower attracts hummingbirds.

Origins

Aquilegia is native to Europe, North America and some regions of Asia. This perennial has been cultivated for gardens in Europe and America since the mid 1600’s.

Height

Grows from 12” to 30” tall. Dwarf varities are great for borders while the taller versions make nice cut flowers.

Color

Aquilegia or Columbine comes in a variety of colors and looks best planted in clumps. The foliage is fern like.

Flowers In

Late spring and early summer.

Care

The delicate but hardy Aquilegia prefers a sunny spot that is protected from winds with a bit of shade if planted in very hot areas. Use well drained soil that is mixed with manure. In colder climates cut them back to the ground in winter.

Propagation

many species of columbine self seed, but can also be propagated by division in early spring.

Zone

Zones 3 – 9