Columbine, Grannys Bonnet
This genus belongs to the buttercup (Ranunculaceae) family, and contains around 70 species found over much of the temperate and subarctic Northern Hemisphere. This is an adaptable genus, with species and varieties suitable for a range of situations including woodlands, rockeries, and perennial borders, and they are well known for their dainty long-spurred flowers, which are borne in clusters atop wiry stems. The genus name is derived from the Latin aquila, meaning eagle, and lego, meaning to gather, suggesting that the spurs situated at the base of the flower resemble the closing talons of an eagle. The nectar-rich flowers of columbines are very sweet and can be used as an unusual edible garnish. Native Americans used some Aquilegia species for medicinal purposes.
Aquilegia species are clump-forming perennials with fine-stemmed, often blue-green foliage that emerges from a woody rootstock. The leaves are divided into small fan-shaped leaflets, often resembling maidenhair-fern fronds in shape, if not in size. The flowering stems usually reach above the foliage and carry spurred, bell-shaped, often pendulous flowers in shades of blue and purple, as well as red, yellow, and white. The flowering period can vary among the species; some bloom through much of late spring and summer, others are short-flowering.
Columbines are mostly quite adaptable and very hardy, but will do best in a cool-winter climate in a position in partial shade with cool, moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. These plants may self-sow, and can be invasive. Certain species can be very attractive to aphids. Propagation is usually by seed, though some species can be divided when dormant.
Gardening Australia suggests you check with your local authorities regarding the weed potential of any plants for your particular area.
© Global Book Publishing (Australia) Pty Ltd from Flora's Gardening Cards