columbine
Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana
Overview
Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana) is an amazing plant species for so many reasons. First, it is incredibly beautiful, boasting golden-yellow petals with tints of orange, surrounding azure blue sepals. Its eye-catching flowers also remain on the plant for a long time and give off a sweet, pleasant fragrance. Columbine is also rather hardy, surviving in a wide range of climates, and deer and rabbits tend to stay away from it. They can also attract beautiful hummingbirds and butterflies, adding an extra touch of colour to the garden. Columbine is an easy species to propagate and make use of in other garden projects due to its long-lasting nature and robustness.
Care Guide
Watering
Columbine enjoys regular watering. During the summer, water every other day or so; water more often during hot or dry weather. During the winter, water once every 2 weeks. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged or saturated. Test the soil periodically for moisture to ensure the plant is receiving the right amount of water.
Light
Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana) plants prefer full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. They require at least 5 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and bloom optimally. If planted in a partially shaded area, it should receive morning sunlight, since afternoon shade will reduce blooming. It's best to avoid periods of peak sun, especially during the hottest months, as the plants may scorch in direct sunlight. When grown in a full sun location, the blooming period will be extended.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 4–8.
Pruning
Columbine should be pruned in spring, after the plant has finished flowering. You should only prune off the spent flower stems, taking care to leave any healthy stems and foliage intact. Pruning should be done sparingly and only the portion of the stem directly below the flower should be removed. Avoid pruning away the foliage, as that will reduce the plant’s ability to photosynthesize and store energy for subsequent flowering. If the entire stem needs to be pruned away, take care to do it in such a way that only healthy, non-flowering stems are cut back.
Propagation
Seed Propagation, Division, Cutting, Layering Propagation
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Hummingbirds.
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow columbine.
