Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Aquilegia alpina
Alpine Columbine
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Height
- 12-18 inches
- Width
- 12-18 inches
- Flower color
- Deep blue to violet
- Foliage color
- Light green to bluish-green
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate, prefers well-drained soil
- Maintenance
- Low
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
About this plant
Aquilegia alpina, or Alpine columbine, is a charming perennial admired for its deep blue to violet nodding flowers and attractive, fern-like foliage. Native to the alpine meadows of Europe, this plant thrives in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and woodland settings. Blooming in late spring to early summer, its distinctive flowers with curved spurs attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The finely divided, light green to bluish-green leaves form a low mound, providing an appealing backdrop. Low maintenance and versatile, Aquilegia alpina grows well in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil, making it a favorite among gardeners and landscape designers.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes · Foxgloves
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the rock garden at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
