columbine (Aquilegia 'Dove') plant — close-up photo
Moderate to grow

columbine

Aquilegia 'Dove'

Overview

The Columbine (Aquilegia 'Dove') is a beautiful and remarkable flower. Its deep blue petals have a sweet, creamy white center that looks like a delicate dove. The plant has a lacy foliage that is ideal for adding texture to garden beds and makes a wonderful accent against greenery. Its vibrant blooms attract hummingbirds and bees, and its delicate fragrance will fill your garden with a peaceful, calming scent. The Columbine is a delightful addition to any garden and its stunning colors will bring joy for many years to come.

Care Guide

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Watering

Columbine (Aquilegia 'Dove') is an easy-to-care-for perennial with delicate blooms that will add a splash of color to any garden. This plant prefers well-draining soil and a bright location with part to full shade. To keep these plants thriving, they require regular watering. Water columbine deeply and consistently to keep the soil moist but not soggy or wet. During the spring and summer months, the plants will need to be watered once to twice a week, depending on the temperature and the amount of rainfall. During the cooler months, when the plants are in a dormant stage, water once every 2 weeks. In periods of extreme heat or drought, providing an additional watering may be beneficial to ensure adequate moisture levels.

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Light

The Columbine (Aquilegia 'Dove') grows best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight per day but can tolerate as much as 8 hours of direct direct sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade conditions with enough indirect light. It should not be planted in areas that get less than 4 hours of sunlight a day. The plant should be watered regularly and deeply, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 3–9.

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Pruning

Columbine (Aquilegia 'Dove') should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Begin by removing any dead or damaged stems or leaves. If the plant is suffering from overcrowding, remove some of the older stems at the base to encourage healthier stem growth from the root. If the plant is overgrown, prune up to 1-third of the stems back leaving 1-2 inches of stem above the soil. After completing the pruning, apply a light layer of mulch and water the plant.

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Propagation

Division, Cutting, Seed Propagation, Layering Propagation

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