Aquilegia alpina
Alpine Columbine
USDA Hardiness Zone 3-8
Blue, sometimes white, nodding unique flowers. Leaves resemble grayish-buttercup foliage as they unfurl. Perfect for hummingbird gardens. Plant in groups for best effect.
Height
12-18 Inches
Spread
15 Inches
Color
Blue/Purple
Interesting Notes
Columbine means 'dove-like'. The flower often represented the dove of peace in medieval paintings.
Bloom Time
May-June
Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips
Grow best with morning sun and afternoon shade. Great for rock gardens, woodland gardens or as a border plant. May go dormant in summer. Cultivate soil at base in late fall.
When to Divide
early spring
Good Companions
Goat's Beard (Aruncus dioicus), Heartleaf Bergenia, Pigsqueak (Bergenia cordifolia), Snowdrop Anemone (Anemone sylvestris), Plantain Lily (Hosta ), Oriental Poppy (Papaver orientale), Double Meadow Buttercup (Ranunculus aconitifolius), Lungwort (Pulmonaria ), Cranesbill (Geranium cinereum)Characteristics & Attributes
Attracts Wildlife
| • | Hummingbirds |
Exposure
| • | Partial Shade |
Foliage Color
| • | Green |
Season of Interest (Flowering)
| • | Spring |
Season of Interest (Foliage)
| • | Spring |
Soil Moisture Preference
| • | Moist but well-drained |
| • | Organic |
