Common columbine

Plant family

Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae)

Also known as

European Columbine, Granny's Nightcap, Granny's Bonnet

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Semi-shaded

Water requirement

Wet

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Medium

Light germinator

Seeding distance

25 cm

Row spacing

25 cm

Seeding depth

0 cm

Instructions

Description

Columbines are a genus of plants within the Ranunculaceae family. There are between 70-120 species, distributed mainly in the temperate climate of the northern hemisphere. Some varieties are used as ornamentals and are popular with insects. Columbines are perennial herbaceous plants, with the typical sepals and corollas of their flowers, which can be found from white to blue and yellow to red. Trivial names include gypsy bell, jester's cap, dove's flower, fairy glove, or Venus's chariot. The columbine is poisonous, and the common columbine is a protected species.

Growing tips

Low maintenance. There are differences between subspecies and varieties in terms of soil and moisture requirements. Cut back after flowering and then fertilize, then columbine will germinate again in the fall. Germination 4-6 weeks at 17-20°C in shade and even moisture. Does not thrive well next to birch or Norway maple. Good with silver candles, funcias, ferns, daffodils, iron hats, delphiniums, cranesbills, lentil roses, silver lady's mantle and watering hearts. Does not bloom until the 2nd year. Some varieties are cold germinators, some are not. Do not plant out the cold germinators until fall or very early spring. Sowing depth: 0.5 cm.