Aquilegia is a hardy perennial known commonly as Columbine. The genus includes 60-70 species, including many that are native to Canadian woodlands and forests. They are best known for the exceptionally deep nectar-bearing spurs that jut backwards from each flower. These are enjoyed by moths, bumblebee, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.

Latin
Aquilegia vulgaris
Family: Ranunculaceae

Difficulty
Easy

Season & Zone
Exposure: Partial shade – full sun is tolerated where summers are cool
Zone: Hardy to Zone 3

Timing
Direct sow in autumn or mid-winter. Seeds can be started indoors, but it’s more complicated: Sow seeds in flats of moistened, sterilized seed starting mix, and place these inside plastic bags in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Then sink the flats outdoors in the ground in a shady spot, and cover with glass. As seedlings appear, transplant them or pot them on. Germination takes 30-90 days.

Approx 30 seeds