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Columbine
Columbine is a recognizable plant to many Colorado
Gardeners. The familiar blue and white
Colorado columbine is our state flower. And there are many kinds of columbine that
feature a variety of flower colors and form. Some are small plants suitable for rock Gardens,
while others show better in a perennial border.
Columbine plants are easy to grow because they
adapt to a variety of conditions. Columbines
do best in sun or light shade, and they prefer soil that stays somewhat moist, but
drains well. Columbines generally begin blooming in early to mid-May and continue through
June. Removing flowers as they fade helps prolong the bloom time. This procedure, known as
dead-heading, keeps plants looking good and prevents the formation of seed pods. Columbines
cross-pollinate and hybridize freely, but the quality of resulting seedlings is inferior to the parent
plants. Generally, columbines thrive for three to five years, but the formation of excess seed may
shorten their lifespan.
 Several columbine species are native to North America. These include Rocky Mountain
columbine, Canadian columbine and golden columbine. European columbine also is commonly
available. Additionally, many hybrid varieties are available in a wide array of colors. Some of
the more common hybrids are Biedermeier, Music Mix, Songbird and the McKana Hybrids.
Enjoy this popular flower in your Garden-and be sure to use it as a cut flower too. The
flowers are plentiful in spring and early summer, and the blue-green foliage adds texture and
color into the fall.
For more information, see the following Colorado State Extension fact sheet(s).
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