Overview

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' is a clump-forming perennial in the genus Aquilegia, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, cottage gardens and cut flowers. It is native to Europe.

About

Aquilegia vulgaris is a species of perennial flowering plant of the genus Aquilegia (columbine) in the family Ranunculaceae. Commonly called the common columbine, European crowfoot, and granny's bonnet, it presently possesses the most expansive range and greatest morphological variability in its genus.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Aquilegia vulgaris

About the genus

Aquilegia, commonly known as columbines, is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae (buttercups). The genus includes between 70 and 400 taxa with natural ranges across the Northern Hemisphere. Natural and introduced populations of Aquilegia exist on all continents but Antarctica.

Wikipedia contributors, "Aquilegia", CC BY-SA 4.0Aquilegia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Aquilegia

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Full sun, Partial shade
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Perennial
Habit
Clump-forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.0 m
Suggested uses
Borders, Cottage gardens, Cut flowers
Native to
Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow'

Cultivation
Prefers moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; deadhead to prolong flowering
Pruning
Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth
Propagation
Seed, Division
Pest resistance
Aphids
Disease resistance
Powdery mildews, Aquilegia downy mildew

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; deadhead to prolong flowering.

Where is the best place to plant Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow'?

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' prefers full sun. It suits full sun and partial shade positions.

What soil does Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' need?

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow'?

Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.

How big does Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' grow?

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' reaches a height of 1.0 m.

Is Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' hardy in the UK?

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow'?

Seed, Division.

More in the Aquilegia genus

Browse all Aquilegia