Rocky Mountain Columbine

Aquilegia saximontana is a miniature treasure from the high peaks of the Rocky Mountains, perfect for the dedicated alpine grower in the UK. Growing only 10-15cm tall, it features delicate, blue-green, deeply lobed foliage. In early summer, it produces enchanting, nodding flowers with blue sepals and creamy-white petals, complete with the characteristic spurs of the genus, though these are relatively short and hooked. Unlike its larger garden cousins, this species maintains a strictly tufted, alpine habit. It prefers a cool, well-drained but moisture-retentive spot, such as a north or east-facing scree or a pocket in a rockery. It is prone to hybridizing with other Aquilegias, so to keep it true, it is best grown away from other species. It is short-lived but may self-seed in favourable, gritty conditions. Its diminutive size makes it an ideal candidate for a choice trough or container.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, gritty soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.