Aquilegia canadensis 'Little Lanterns'

Columbine

Description:

♦ Zones:  3 - 8     Height:  9 - 12"     Exposure:  Full Sun to Part Shade ♦

Aquilegia canadensis is a Missouri native spring wildflower that features drooping, bell-like, red and yellow flowers. ‘Little Lanterns’ is a compact version of the species that grows to only 10” tall. Aquilegia comes from the Latin word for eagle in reference to the flower’s five spurs which purportedly resemble an eagle’s talon.  Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils except heavy, poorly drained ones. Prefers rich, moist soils with light to moderate shade. Remove flowering stems after bloom to encourage additional bloom. Keep soils uniformly moist after bloom to prolong attractive foliage appearance. When foliage depreciates, plants may be cut to the ground. ‘Little Lanterns’ may be grown from seed, and will self-seed in the garden in optimum growing conditions.  Foliage often declines by mid-summer at which point it should be cut to the ground.  Borders, cottage gardens, open shade gardens, woodland gardens or naturalized areas. Also a good selection for a hummingbird garden. Continue to water plants after bloom to enjoy the ground cover effect of the attractive foliage.

USDA Hardiness Zone: