Columbine (Aquilegia)The Columbine is a hardy old fashioned perennial wildflower native to most temperate areas of the world. The plants are one to three feet high and generally begin blooming in early to mid-May. They will often continue to bloom through June if the flowers are removed as they fade. The beautiful spurred flowers range from 1"-3", and come in hybrid colors ranging from black to white, with every color of the rainbow between. The foliage is light and delicate.
Columbines do best when they are grown in moist, rich, well drained soil in full sun to light shade. Columbines are a favorite flower for hummingbirds, but do tend to lose vitality after 3-4 years and are best replaced at that time.
Plants should be set out in the garden in spring or late summer. Plant them one to two feet apart with the crown (where the roots and tops meet) at soil level. Once established, feed them monthly with a soluble all purpose (5-10-5) fertilizer and keep them well watered during the growing season. In our zone (5-6) it is best to provide a good cover of mulched leaves in late fall to protect them from alternating freezing and thawing temperatures during the winter.
They are deer resistant, attract butterflies and hummingbirds, and are a great cut flower.
By: Sandy Weinkam
Gardening expert at A.J. Rahn Greenhouses
Posts
