Top 35 Columbine Varieties for Your Spring Garden

Ah, the lovely columbine, also known as Aquilegia, a short-lived perennial wildflower that adds a touch of magic to any garden. With its delicate blooms and vivid colors, columbine is a staple in spring landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there’s something enchanting about this flower that draws us in.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 35 exceptional columbine varieties that will elevate your spring garden to new and colorful heights. From the classic favorites to some unique options, there’s a columbine for every garden style and preference.

So, grab your gardening gloves and let’s dive into the wonderful world of columbines!

What Makes Columbines Special?

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Columbines are known for their nectar-filled spurs, delectable hues, and striking bicolor combinations. With over 70 species and an extensive array of cultivated hybrids, there’s a columbine for every garden. These ephemeral spring blossoms range in size from one to four inches wide, with hybrid cultivars being the largest and native species the smallest.

Why Grow Columbines?

Versatile: Columbines thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, in sunny to partially shaded locations.
Easy to Grow: They prefer moist soil of average quality that drains well.
Attractive to Pollinators: Columbines are beloved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Variety of Colors: From pastel pinks to vibrant reds and blues, columbines offer a rainbow of options.
Cottage Garden Darling: Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and charm to any garden.

Now, let’s explore some of the most stunning columbine varieties that you can consider planting in your garden:

1. Barlow Mix

Description: A lighthearted mix of pink, purple, red, white, and bicolor blooms with no spurs.
Height: 24 to 30 inches
Where to Buy: Eden Brothers

2. Biedermeier

Description: Mix of whites, reds, purples, pinks, and bicolor blooms in pastel hues.
Height: 12 to 18 inches
Where to Buy: Nature Hills Nursery

3. Black Barlow

Description: Double blossoms with velvety maroon petals and no spurs.
Height: 24 to 30 inches
Where to Buy: Amazon

4. Blackcurrant Ice

Description: A dainty butterfly-like flower with mauve sepals and creamy yellow center corolla.
Height: 6 to 12 inches
Where to Buy: Nature Hills Nursery

5. Blue Dream

Description: Baby blue sepals with short spurs and a crisp white center corolla.
Height: 24 to 32 inches
Where to Buy: Outsidepride via Amazon

6. Blue Star

Description: Regal purplish-blue sepals with white corollas and short spurs.
Height: 24 to 32 inches
Where to Buy: Eden Brothers

7. Cameo Mix

Description: Pastel blue, pink, and white heads with curled spurs.
Height: 6 to 8 inches

These are just a few of the stunning columbine varieties available to gardeners. Each one brings its unique charm and beauty to the garden, making it a delight to watch them bloom and attract pollinators. Whether you prefer pastel hues or bold bicolors, there’s a columbine variety that will suit your taste.

Tips for Growing Columbines

Plant in well-draining soil in a sunny to partially shaded location.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Divide clumps every few years to maintain plant health.
Watch for aphids, leaf miners, and caterpillars, which may affect columbines.

With a bit of care and attention, columbines will reward you with their stunning blooms year after year. So, add a touch of spring magic to your garden with these enchanting flowers!

In Conclusion

Columbines are a delightful addition to any garden, with their nectar-filled spurs, delectable hues, and striking bicolor combinations. From classic favorites to unique hybrids, there’s a columbine variety for every garden style and preference. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, columbines are sure to bring joy and beauty to your spring landscape.

So, why not add a few columbines to your garden this season and watch as these enchanting flowers transform your outdoor space into a vibrant and colorful paradise. Happy gardening!