Columbine Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Blue Barlow' (Barlow Series) (d)
ABOUT
Columbine 'Blue Barlow' is distinguished by its unique and enchanting flowers. Each bloom has multiple layers of densely packed, navy blue to deep purple petals that create a ruffled, spherical shape, somewhat reminiscent of a small pompom. The flowers lack the typical spur that is common to many columbines, which adds to their distinctness. Upon closer inspection, you can appreciate the fine details of the intricate petals that invite closer contemplation. These blooms stand proudly atop slender, straight stalks, adorned with delicate green foliage. The leaves are biternate, meaning they divide into threes, and each leaflet is further lobed and rounded, giving a soft, lacy texture to the plant. The combination of unique, double flowers and attractively dissected leaves creates a romantic and cottage-garden aesthetic which is a beautiful addition to any garden landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Granny's Bonnet, Columbine.
Common names
Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Blue Barlow'.
ToxicityTo humans
Columbine, including Aquilegia vulgaris 'Blue Barlow', has components that are toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be poisonous. If ingested in significant amounts, these compounds can lead to symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, can result in respiratory failure and seizures. The highest concentration of these toxins is typically found in the seeds and roots. Therefore, caution should be exercised to prevent ingestion of any part of the plant, especially by children and pets.
To pets
Columbine, including Aquilegia vulgaris 'Blue Barlow', is toxic to pets due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides in all parts of the plant. If ingested by animals, it can cause symptoms similar to those in humans, which include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and can lead to more severe reactions such as difficulty in breathing, seizures, and potential respiratory failure. The most toxic parts are the seeds and roots of the plant. Pet owners should keep their animals away from columbines to prevent accidental ingestion and potential poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Aquilegia vulgaris 'Blue Barlow' adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its unique, double, dark blue flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: The plant is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are vital for pollination in the garden.
- Shade Tolerance: It can thrive in partial shade, making it suitable for shaded garden spots where many plants may not grow well.
- Cottage Garden Style: Perfect for a cottage garden design due to its whimsical shape and traditional charm.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms in late spring to early summer, providing color and interest during this season.
- Easy to Grow: Generally easy to care for and does not require complex gardening skills or maintenance.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements due to their unique appearance and long stems.
- Extended Bloom Period: Has a relatively long flowering period compared to some other garden plants.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Columbine, specifically the 'Blue Barlow' variety, can be used in dried flower arrangements due to its unique shape and color, providing a long-lasting and artistic addition to home decor.
- The petals of Columbine can be pressed and used in crafting, such as making bookmarks, greeting cards, or any paper-based art requiring floral embellishments.
- The nectar-rich flowers can be a valuable addition to a garden focused on attracting and supporting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Columbine leaves are sometimes used in the art of leaf casting to create ornamental objects, stepping stones or birdbaths for the garden.
- This plant’s striking blooms can be used as a natural dye source to impart colors onto fabrics or yarns for textile projects.
- Columbine is utilized in educational settings to study evolutionary relationships among flowering plants, given its unique phylogenetic position.
- When placed in a pond or water feature, the falling Columbine flowers can add an ephemeral touch of beauty as they float on the water surface.
- The spurs of Columbine flowers with their intricate structure can serve as a natural inspiration for artists and designers in various fields such as fashion, jewelry, and architecture.
- Columbine plants can be effective in a sensory garden due to their fascinating shapes and colors that can stimulate visual and tactile experiences.
- When used in photography, the 'Blue Barlow' blooms can create stunning macros or serve as alluring backgrounds for insect photography due to their attractiveness to various bugs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Columbine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Columbine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength: The name Aquilegia is derived from the Latin word 'aquila,' which means 'eagle.' The flower is said to resemble an eagle's claw, symbolizing strength and power.
- Foolishness: Also known as 'Columbine,' from the Latin 'columbina,' meaning 'dovelike,' it was associated with the foolishness of the dove in Christian symbology.
- Fertility: Due to its unique shape, with spurred petals, Columbine has historically been associated with fertility and the Holy Spirit in art.
- Desertion: In the language of flowers, Columbine can sometimes symbolize desertion or forsaken love due to its fleeting beauty.
- Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit: The multiple spurs of the Columbine have been likened to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.
WaterColumbine 'Blue Barlow' prefers regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It's best to water deeply once a week with about one gallon of water, ensuring the soil is moist at a depth of at least an inch. During hotter, drier periods, increase watering frequency to twice per week or as needed to maintain moisture. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. Adjust the amount and frequency based on rainfall and check the soil moisture regularly to avoid overwatering.
LightColumbine 'Blue Barlow' thrives in partial shade to full sun. Ideally, provide morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. This ensures the plant receives adequate sunlight while being protected from the harsh midday sun. A spot with dappled sunlight throughout the day is also suitable, promoting healthy growth and flower production.
TemperatureColumbine 'Blue Barlow' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to about -30°F, while the maximum temperature it can endure is around 90°F. Ideally, it thrives in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F, where the columbine can grow most vigorously without stress from extreme heat or cold.
PruningColumbine 'Blue Barlow' requires minimal pruning. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage a second bloom and trim back foliage to tidy the plant and promote air circulation. Pruning is best done after flowering has finished for the season. If the plant becomes too dense, thin out crowded stems in the spring to improve its health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilColumbine 'Blue Barlow' thrives in a well-draining soil mix, rich in organic matter, with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat, with added perlite or vermiculite for drainage, suits it best.
RepottingColumbine 'Blue Barlow' does not typically require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it has clearly outgrown its container.
Humidity & MistingColumbine 'Blue Barlow' is adaptable to a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity and does not require any special humidity considerations.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in filtered light, keep soil moist, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, enrich soil with organic matter, ensure well-drained site.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleColumbine 'Blue Barlow' begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in the soil, typically in spring or summer. These seeds germinate, usually within a few weeks, and start to grow into small seedlings with characteristic lobed foliage. The plants develop a deep root system and a rosette of leaves during their first year, marking the vegetative growth stage. In the second year, stems elongate, leaves mature, and flower buds form. The distinctive double, deep blue flowers of 'Blue Barlow' bloom in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators. After flowering, seed pods develop, mature, and release seeds, thereby completing the life cycle and beginning anew if conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Blue Barlow', also known as Columbine 'Blue Barlow', can be propagated most successfully through seed. This method is particularly popular because it allows for genetic variation and is relatively easy to manage. Seeds can be sown directly outside in fall, where they can experience the natural stratification process during the winter months. Alternatively, sowing seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost provides an early start for the seedlings, which can be transplanted outside once the danger of frost has passed. To achieve the best germination rates, seeds should be maintained at a steady temperature of about 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) and should be kept consistently moist until germination, which can take anywhere from 30 to 90 days. Seedlings must be handled carefully due to their delicate nature, particularly when transplanting them to their final growing location.
