Columbine (Aquilegia 'Dove')
Graceful Columbine, Aquilegia 'Dove', offers pure white, long-spurred flowers in spring. Hardy zones 3-9, perfect for woodland settings.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Aquilegia ‘Dove’, commonly known as Columbine, is highly valued for its distinctly elegant, pure white, long-spurred flowers that bloom reliably in the spring. This versatile herbaceous perennial brings structure and soft color to shaded garden areas. Unlike some taller varieties, the compact nature of Aquilegia ‘Dove’ makes it an excellent choice for defined borders and rock gardens where space is limited.
The appeal of this cultivar extends beyond its spring display; its finely divided, gray-green foliage offers pleasing texture throughout the growing season. Proper care, particularly ensuring consistent moisture after flowering ceases, helps maintain the foliage integrity until the plant naturally goes dormant or is trimmed back. Enjoying this cultivar supports local wildlife, particularly hummingbirds attracted to the spurred blooms.
As a member of the Ranunculaceae family, Aquilegia ‘Dove’ thrives in conditions mimicking its native woodland edges. Gardeners seeking classic cottage garden charm combined with relatively low fuss will find this Songbird Series hybrid an invaluable addition, provided cross-pollination risks are accepted if growing near other Columbine types.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Ranunculaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1.5-2 ft
- Spread: 0.75-1 ft
- Bloom Time: April to May
- Bloom Description: White
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Plant Aquilegia ‘Dove’ during the cooler months, ideally early spring or fall, allowing the roots to establish before summer heat arrives. It requires average, evenly moist, well-drained soil, thriving best where it receives light to moderate shade rather than unrelenting afternoon sun, although it tolerates full sun if moisture is consistent. Amending the soil with organic matter will provide the richer base this Columbine prefers.
Watering needs are medium; maintain uniform moisture, especially during the period immediately following the spring bloom, which helps keep the foliage looking fresh longer. There is no specific need for heavy fertilization; rich soil is often sufficient. Deadheading the faded flower stems promptly after the primary bloom encourages a second, though usually smaller, flush of flowers.
If the foliage begins to look unsightly or declines sharply by mid-summer, it is perfectly acceptable to cut the entire plant down to the ground. New growth will emerge, providing ground cover effect. Gardeners should be aware that seeds harvested from this cultivar may not breed “true to type” due to potential cross-pollination with other varieties.
Landscape Uses
Aquilegia ‘Dove’ is highly recommended for various partially shaded settings due to its delicate structure and beautiful white flowers. It is perfectly suited for naturalizing in woodland gardens or among the dappled light beneath taller shrubs and deciduous trees, creating an informal, charming effect. Its moderate height (up to 2 feet) makes it excellent for the middle or back of cottage gardens and perennial borders where it can contrast well with hostas or ferns.
Consider using this Columbine variety in rock gardens, where its fine foliage can soften hardscaping elements. Furthermore, because it attracts hummingbirds, Aquilegia ‘Dove’ is an essential component of any intentional wildlife or hummingbird garden design. Consistent watering after the main bloom will ensure the foliage remains attractive, acting as effective low ground cover throughout the remainder of the growing season.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Aquilegia ‘Dove’ is a cultivar celebrated for its large, upward-facing flowers featuring long spurs, all held on compact plants topping out around 18-24 inches tall. The common name Columbine relates to the genus name’s reference to an eagle’s claw due to the spur shape, while the ‘Dove’ name highlights its pure white color. Its fine, triternate, gray-green foliage offers a soft texture reminiscent of meadow rue, providing year-round interest apart from winter dormancy.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
- Deer
Potential Problems
The primary pest concern for Aquilegia ‘Dove’ is the leaf miner, which can leave unsightly trails within the foliage; management often involves removing heavily affected leaves promptly. Aphids occasionally pose a minor nuisance, typically treatable with a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap applied early in an infestation. Fungal issues like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust can appear, especially in humid conditions or if air circulation is poor; ensure adequate spacing during planting. Remember that foliage decline in mid-summer is natural, and cutting the plant back at that point controls unsightly senescence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Columbine suitable for?
Aquilegia ‘Dove’ is hardy and reliable across a wide range, thriving best in USDA Zones 3 through 9.
How large does Aquilegia ‘Dove’ grow?
This compact cultivar typically reaches a height of 1.5 to 2 feet tall, spreading between 0.75 and 1 foot wide.
What sun exposure does Columbine need?
For optimal flowering and foliage health, Aquilegia ‘Dove’ performs best in full sun to areas receiving part shade.
When does Columbine bloom?
This specific Columbine variety produces its beautiful white flowers throughout the spring, generally blooming from April to May.
Conclusion
Aquilegia ‘Dove’ offers gardeners a sophisticated touch of white elegance, making it a standout choice for shaded borders and naturalized settings. The combination of its unique flower structure and attractive foliage ensures this Columbine remains a favorite. Before planting, assess your garden’s light and moisture levels to guarantee this perennial thrives in your specific microclimate.
Companion Planting
Selecting the right companions enhances the look and health of your Aquilegia ‘Dove’. Plants that enjoy similar conditions—medium moisture and dappled shade—pair beautifully. Consider using spring ephemerals like Bleeding Heart (Dicentra) whose softer foliage emerges at the same time. As the Columbine foliage naturally starts to fade in the summer heat, taller shade-lovers like Astilbe or Hakone Grass (Hakonechloa) can step in to mask any thinning areas, maintaining visual interest in the border.
Wildlife Benefits
The intricate, long-spurred flowers of Aquilegia ‘Dove’ are specially adapted for pollination. While bees visit, the deep nectaries are highly attractive to hummingbirds, making this a wonderful addition to high-value wildlife plantings. Planting Aquilegia ‘Dove’ in clusters rather than as single specimens increases its visibility and effectiveness as a nectar source in the spring landscape.
