Barlow Mix Columbine is a clematis-flowered variety of Aquilegia vulgaris, prized for its intricate, double-petaled blooms that command attention in any garden. These cold-hardy perennials thrive in zones 3 through 9, making them reliable performers across most of North America. Hardy for a full year in the garden (365 days), they reach maturity and produce their distinctive flowers that excel as cut stems. Growing to a compact bush habit and spaced 10 inches apart, Barlow Mix Columbine brings an old-fashioned elegance to partial shade gardens where few other perennials perform as gracefully.
10
Partial Shade
Moderate
3-9
?in H x ?in W
—
Low
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The clematis-like double flowers of Barlow Mix are unlike the simple columbines most gardeners know, with layers of petals that unfurl like tiny Victorian bonnets. Open-pollinated seed means you can save seed from your best plants year after year, building a strain perfectly adapted to your garden's microclimate. Cool-climate gardeners particularly benefit from this variety; it settles in from zone 3 northward with genuine vigor, requiring only basic winter protection in the coldest regions.
Barlow Mix Columbine is grown primarily as a cut flower, where the distinctive double blooms bring texture and architectural interest to arrangements. The clematis-like petals hold well once stems are harvested at the right stage, making them reliable for flower design work.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before your last spring frost. Barely cover the seeds, as light actually aids germination. Keep the seed tray in a warm location and maintain moisture without waterlogging. Transplant seedlings into larger containers or cell packs once their first true leaves appear, and they'll be ready to move outdoors after the last frost date.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date has passed. Space plants 10 inches apart. If you've started seeds indoors, you'll have sturdy transplants ready to establish quickly in the garden.
Direct sowing is possible once soil has warmed to at least 65°F (18°C). Sow seeds in groups of 3 to 4 directly into the garden bed where you want them to grow. Thin to one plant per spot once true leaves develop.
For cut flower use, harvest stems when half of the florets on a stem have opened. At this stage, the remaining buds will continue to open in the vase, extending the life of your arrangement.
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