Profile of the aquilegia vulgaris
Botanical names: Aquilegia vulgaris
German names: Columbine, common columbine, wood columbine or eagle flower
Family: Ranunculaceae
Flowering time: April to June
Foliage: Green
Growth habit: Perennial
Origin: Central and Southern Europe, Northwest Africa
Location: Sunny to semi-shady
Use of the common columbine in design
The aquilegia vulgaris grows up to 70 cm high and stands out with its striking colour and the special growth habit of the flower. They fit particularly well in natural gardens with many different flowers and colours. The unique plant magically attracts insects and is therefore also very valuable for smaller inhabitants in the garden.
This native wild plant feels at home in humus-rich soil, but does not tolerate waterlogging. Choose a sunny to semi-shady location for this beautiful perennial. If the location is chosen carefully and the columbine is cared for, the rather short-lived plant will reproduce by self-seeding.
The bells are unfilled, making it easy for insects to reach the nectar and pollen. The native plant is therefore very valuable for bees.
Design ideas for columbine
The flowers on the long stems are particularly effective in lush plantings. They grow rather tall and create colour accents. This allows them to grow above the planting, creating different heights. It shoots up between the less tall plants. Its fine stems cast little shade and make it ideal for mixed planting.
Different varieties in a wide range of colours
Aquilegia can be found in a wide variety of colours. Even visually striking flowers such as the golden columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha) are wonderful to look at. Browse through the picture gallery and let yourself be inspired.
In this Reference we have also embedded the columbine in the design.
