Nodding, intricately spurred flowers in blues, purples and pinks dance above ferny grey-green foliage in spring. A charming, self-seeding cottage perennial; seeds and roots are toxic if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 70 cm H × 40 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Columbine
Botanically, Aquilegia vulgaris is a moderate-growing perennial in the Ranunculaceae family. It reaches around 70 cm tall and 40 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Purple, blue and pink flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Columbine
Columbine suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Columbine does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Columbine is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Columbine after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Columbine in the garden
Columbine earns its place for feeding bees and pollinators, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden, cut flowers for the vase and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Columbine with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Columbine
Plant Sale lists Columbine as potted plants and seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Columbine seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.