How to grow Columbine in the UK
Aquilegia vulgaris
Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Self-seeds prolifically — endless variations. UK native cottage-garden classic. This guide covers when and how to sow Columbine, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Easy — good for beginners
Position
partial sun (3–6 hrs)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Columbine
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant at the same depth as the pot
- Spacing
- 30–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant container-grown stock spring or autumn; divide established clumps in spring
- Growing
- Water well the first season until established; mulch in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut back faded foliage in late autumn or early spring; divide every 3–4 years
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on new shoots; otherwise robust
Companion planting for Columbine
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Columbine this year
Add Columbine to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Columbine FAQs
How much sun does Columbine need?
Columbine prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
Is Columbine easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Self-seeds prolifically — endless variations. UK native cottage-garden classic.