Jones's Columbine

One of the most coveted of all alpine Aquilegias, this species is a true miniature, rarely exceeding 5-10cm in height. It features exquisite, finely divided, glaucous blue-grey foliage that forms a tight, compact tuft. The flowers are disproportionately large for the size of the plant, being upright, spurless or short-spurred, and typically a beautiful shade of lavender-blue with yellow stamens. In the UK, this is often grown by specialists in an alpine house to protect the fuzzy foliage from winter damp, though it can succeed in a very sharp-draining scree or tufa. It is native to limestone areas of North America, so it appreciates some lime in the soil. Growth is slow, making it ideal for exhibition or small troughs. It requires a sunny position and a long winter dormant period. It is a challenging but highly rewarding species for the experienced grower who can provide the precise drainage and ventilation required to keep it healthy.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Very sharply drained, limestone-based grit.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.