Columbine (Aquilegia): Easy, nectar-rich perennials for temperate gardens

Columbine (Aquilegia) are low-maintenance perennials prized for spurred, nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators. Plant in well-drained soil and partial shade, sow seeds lightly in fall or early spring, and space plants 12-18 inches apart. Deadhead to extend bloom, manage columbine leafminer by removing affected foliage, and renew plants by seed or basal cuttings as many garden varieties are short-lived.

Why gardeners plant columbine

Columbine (genus Aquilegia) are among the easiest, most attractive perennials for temperate gardens. They produce nodding, spurred flowers in late spring to early summer and are valued for their delicate form, long nectar spurs, and wide color range. Many cultivars and hybrids give you everything from pastel shades to very deep purples often described as nearly black.

The flowers have five petal spurs that hold nectar and petal-like sepals with contrasting colors. Those nectar spurs make columbines especially good at attracting hummingbirds, long-tongued bees, and other pollinators.

Planting and site recommendations

Columbines prefer well-drained soil and perform best in partial shade. In cooler climates they tolerate (and sometimes prefer) more sun. Space transplants about 12-18 inches apart to allow air circulation and room for clumps to develop.

You can sow seed in fall or early spring. Cover seeds very lightly - about 1/8 inch of soil - since they need some light to germinate. Many gardeners also start seed indoors and transplant seedlings after the last frost.

Water new plants regularly until established. Once mature, columbines are moderately drought-tolerant but will bloom more reliably with consistent moisture. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring is usually sufficient.

Propagation and lifespan

Columbine readily self-seeds, which is why many beds maintain steady bloom year after year. Many garden varieties are short-lived perennials; expect some plants to decline after a few seasons. To renew stock, allow some seed to drop, start new seedlings, or take basal cuttings in spring.

Division is possible but can stress the plant's taproot; divide only when necessary and do so in early spring.

Maintenance and common problems

Deadhead spent flowers to prolong bloom and reduce unwanted volunteers. Cut plants back after flowering if they look leggy.

A common pest is the columbine leafminer, which creates pale blotches on leaves. Remove heavily affected foliage and destroy it to reduce overwintering larvae. For severe infestations, use targeted controls like spinosad or consult local extension recommendations. Watch also for powdery mildew in humid sites.

Winter behavior and hardiness

Columbines die back in winter and typically tolerate light frosts. They re-emerge in spring from crowns or from seedlings. In many temperate gardens they behave as reliable, low-maintenance perennials when given good drainage and partial shade.

Plant them in borders, rock gardens, or containers to enjoy their graceful flowers and pollinator value each season.