Aquilegia vulgaris – Organic Seeds

Columbine – Aquilegia vulgaris – Organic Seeds

The Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris) is a graceful, herbaceous perennial plant that is a charming addition to any garden. Known for its distinctive flower shapes and a wide range of colors, from blue and purple to white and pink, Columbine is not only visually striking but also an important nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects, contributing to biodiversity in your garden.

Characteristics:

• Height: 40-70 cm
• Blooming Period: May to June
• Flowers: Delicately shaped flowers in various colors (blue, purple, white, pink)
• Foliage: Fine, deeply cut leaves in a fresh green color

Uses and Applications: Columbine is an ideal plant for flower beds, borders, and shady corners of the garden. It prefers a light to partial shade location and thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. The flowers create a light, elegant atmosphere in the garden, attracting butterflies and bees, thereby contributing to the ecological balance. Columbine is also suitable for mixed borders and as a background plant in larger gardens.

Medicinal Properties: Columbine has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, although it should be applied with caution. The plant contains alkaloids that can be toxic in high doses, but in traditional applications, Columbine was used for its calming and pain-relieving properties. Always consult an expert before using Columbine for medicinal purposes.

Cultivation Tips:

• Sowing Period: Sow Columbine seeds in early spring (March-April) indoors or directly in the ground from May to June.
• Soil: Columbine thrives in well-drained soil with slightly acidic pH, but it grows well in almost any well-maintained garden soil.
• Location: Choose a location with partial shade, as the plant grows best away from full sun.
• Care: Water regularly but avoid standing water. Columbine is fairly hardy, but it may benefit from light protection against cold, wet winters.
• Spacing: Plant Columbine at a distance of around 30 cm to allow ample space for the flowers and to improve air circulation.

Summary: The Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris) is a stunning, versatile perennial plant that, with its unique flowers and contribution to biodiversity, is a must-have for any garden. Whether you're looking to create a colorful flowerbed or enrich your garden with an attractive plant that attracts beneficial insects, Columbine is an excellent choice. With its easy cultivation and a variety of color options, this plant adds character to any garden.