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.
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Cineraria Varieties
