The stunning Aquilegia, also known as Columbine
One of the sweetest transplants from the tough American west, specifically the Rocky Mountain area, this plant seems to defy gravity with it noddingly gracious petals. An easy to grow and self seeding plant, this is a must for any partial shade area. Requiring little but a modest push into the soil, these plants both spread and self-seed. They like to keep their feet in mildly alkaline to neutral soil of 6.8-7.5, a plus for soils that tend away from acid, thus preventing other spring beauties like rhododendrons and azaleas. Keep in mind that these are airy, delicate blooms that look best when massed together for overall impact. Either start from seed or purchase 3-5 of the same variety.
This plant is found in the northern hemisphere, from Asia and Europe and throughout the US and Canadian bluffs. They’re easy to start from seed, or in a small starter pot ready-to-go from your local greenhouse. Choose a well-drained area, ie, not near a pond or other standing water. Atlhough they will tolerate shade, more sun will produce more blooms. The foliage is just about as pretty as leaves can be, reminding me of Shamrocks.
A close-up of the Aquilegia or Columbine leaf
They do become tall-about 24-30 inches, so underplant them with a grass, or fern to provide some contrast to the upright stems and flowers. Here’s an example:
The Columbines are tucked in the back behind the Siberian Iris. The Dianthus (carnations with the purple pincushion-like flower in the foreground) would be great closer to the Columbine and I would suggest white Columbine for more contrast and pop with the wall behind. Also, the Siberian Iris looks taller and might be better behind the Columbine. I thought at first that the Dianthus were chives, which would be perfect as well.
Plumstone 