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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Aquilegia alpina

Alpine Columbine

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.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate, prefers well-drained soil

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

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.