columbine
Aquilegia vulgaris
Overview
The columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris) is an amazing plant species because of its beautiful and intricate blooms. It produces bell-shaped clusters of vibrant pinks, purples, whites and blues, with a maroon-like center. Columbines make wonderful additions to any garden, providing long-lasting color in the shade. An added bonus is that they attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden, making them not just lovely but also helpful in keeping the ecosystem in balance. They are also a fave of wild creatures, so they can be a great addition to naturalized areas too.
Care Guide
Watering
Columbine should be watered once a week, but should not stand in water. Water until the soil is moist but not soggy. Avoid wetting the foliage of the plant. Allow the top few inches of soil dry out before rewatering. If temperatures are especially warm, increase watering to every 4-5 days.
Light
Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris) prefers full sun to partial shade, with 5 to 6 hours of sunlight per day. The plant will generally need more sunlight in the summer months than in the winter months. Generally speaking, this plant should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 3–8.
Pruning
Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris) should be pruned in late winter or early spring. This plant does not need to be pruned every year; however, light pruning can be used to help create an attractive form and encourage new growth. Prune out any dead or dying branches, as well as any foliage that looks diseased. Also, trim off any flower stems that have already bloomed, as these will not bloom again. Lastly, if necessary, lightly prune out any branches that have become too long or spindly, leaving an attractive shape and encouraging side branching for further floral display.
Propagation
Division, Cutting, Seed Propagation, Layering Propagation
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Hummingbirds.
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Leaf miner insect, Disease resistant, Deer resistant, Rabbit resistant .
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow columbine.
