Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Columbine — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Aquilegia spp. |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 21–30 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 15.6–21.1 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 365–730 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| Mature height (cm) | 45.7–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–9 |
| Light | Partial sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Sow seeds shallowly on the soil surface and provide 3–4 weeks of cold stratification (fall sowing outdoors achieves this naturally) to break dormancy. Columbines bloom most freely in their second and third years and are prolific self-seeders that will hybridize freely, creating a constantly shifting mix of colors. Leafminer damage creates white tunnels in the foliage but rarely threatens plant health; remove affected leaves and dispose of them. Plants are short-lived perennials (3–5 years) but the colony self-perpetuates readily through self-seeding.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0