Aquilegia longissima - Columbine

<p>Columbines are perennial plants that produce unique flowers in a variety of colours. Their delicate blooms are characterised by the long spurs extending from the petals. <strong>Columbines flower in spring, from May to June, sometimes extending into early summer</strong> (July-August). They feature beautiful, finely divided foliage that is light and airy. <strong>The common columbine, <em>Aquilegia vulgaris</em></strong>, found growing wild in France, <strong>bears dark blue flowers, but there are numerous varieties offering a full spectrum of colours</strong>: pink, white, yellow, red, purple, violet… The flowers are often bicoloured as well. They also come in different forms: single or double blooms, sometimes resembling pompons or “grandmother’s bonnets”. </p> <p><strong>Columbines are easy to grow and relatively undemanding… making them perfect for beginners!</strong> Don’t be fooled by their delicate appearance—they are hardy, resilient plants. Planting is best done in autumn or spring, preferably in fresh, well-draining soil, though they adapt to many conditions. Alpine species thrive in rockeries. <strong>Columbines can self-seed and naturalise in the garden</strong>, but you can also collect seeds for sowing. Lastly, columbines make excellent cut flowers for bouquets!</p>