Columbine (Aquilegia 'Spezialrasse')

Overview

The Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’, commonly known as Columbine, is a highly valued herbaceous perennial treasured for its classic, spurred flowers. This cultivar produces bushy, clump-forming plants reaching up to 2.5 feet tall, displaying large, showy blooms in vibrant mixes of red, white, yellow, and blue. Growing this variety introduces delightful spring color and interest to shaded or partially sunny garden beds.

Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ thrives in average, evenly moist, well-drained conditions, offering reliable performance across USDA Zones 4 through 8. Its foliage, which is finely divided and somewhat fern-like, provides excellent texture even when the plant is not in bloom, suggesting meadow rue. Gardeners appreciate the easygoing nature of Columbine, provided basic moisture requirements are met.

While the initial bloom occurs reliably in spring, proper care ensures the foliage remains attractive longer, providing consistent ground cover. Hummingbirds are frequently attracted to the long-spurred flowers of Columbine, making the Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ a wonderful addition to wildlife-friendly landscaping schemes.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Ranunculaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1.5-2.5 ft
  • Spread: 1-2 ft
• Bloom Time: April to May
• Bloom Description: Red, white, yellow, blue and combinations thereof
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

Plant Columbine in the spring or fall in locations receiving full sun or light to moderate shade. The key to success with Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ is soil quality; while tolerant of various conditions, it performs best in organically rich, moist, well-drained soil. Avoid heavy, poorly drained sites at all costs, as they quickly lead to root issues.

Water requirements are medium; maintaining even moisture is essential, particularly during hot, dry spells or right after the initial spring bloom to keep the foliage looking its best. Fertilization is rarely needed if the soil is organically rich, but a light spring dressing balanced fertilizer can encourage robust growth.

Maintenance primarily involves deadheading. Promptly remove spent flowering stems after the peak bloom period in late spring to encourage secondary blooming and improve the plant’s appearance. If the foliage naturally declines or fades by mid-summer (a common characteristic of many Columbines), the entire plant can be cut back to the ground level at that time. Be aware that seeds collected from garden Columbine crosses freely, so new generations of Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ may not exhibit the exact parent flower colors.

Landscape Uses

The delicate structure and vibrant spring colors make Columbine an essential component in many garden styles, especially cottage and woodland settings. The recommended uses for Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ span from formal borders, where its height and shape create vertical interest, to informal settings like naturalized areas or rock gardens. It pairs beautifully with spring bulbs and early summer bloomers, as its foliage provides a soft texture beneath taller perennials.

For those cultivating a wildlife haven, the Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ is highly recommended for a hummingbird garden due to its nectar-rich, spurred flowers. When included in open shade gardens or woodland borders, it helps bridge the gap between spring ephemerals and summer bloomers. Remember to continue watering after the flowers fade to maintain the dense ground cover provided by the attractive basal foliage, ensuring the area remains lush until fall.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Aquilegia is a genus of about 70 species of herbaceous perennials from the Northern Hemisphere; the genus name derives from the Latin word for eagle due to the flower’s five spurs resembling talons. The common name of granny’s bonnet refers to the spreading bonnet-like appearance of the petals. The Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ cultivar is bushy, clump-forming, and features large, upward-facing, long-spurred flowers in striking two-tone mixes during spring.

Tolerances

• Rabbit
• Deer

Potential Problems

The primary pest concern for Columbine is the leaf miner, whose larvae tunnel visible trails through the foliage. Aphids can occasionally be a minor issue but rarely cause significant structural damage. Potential disease issues include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust, often becoming more prevalent in humid conditions or when air circulation is poor. To manage foliage decline, cut plants back to the ground when they begin looking ragged by mid-summer, ensuring adequate water during this recovery phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Columbine suitable for?

Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ is hardy and suitable for cultivation in USDA Zones 4 to 8.

How large does Columbine grow?

This perennial typically achieves a height between 1.5 and 2.5 feet, with a spread ranging from 1 to 2 feet wide.

When does Columbine bloom?

Columbine blooms reliably during the spring season, specifically from April to May, offering a mixture of red, white, yellow, and blue flowers.

What sun exposure does Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ need?

This plant performs best when situated in an area that receives full sun to part shade conditions.

Conclusion

The Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ Columbine is a versatile and visually stunning addition to any partial shade border, celebrated for its spirited spring flower display. Its tolerance for different soil types and its appeal to hummingbirds make it a garden workhorse. Before planting, confirm that your site falls within USDA Zones 4-8 and plan for consistent moisture to fully enjoy the ornamental foliage throughout the season.

Companion Planting

Choosing companions carefully enhances the appeal of Columbine while masking its summer foliage decline. Excellent partners include later-blooming perennials that can fill the void when the Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ naturally fades. Consider pairing it with Hostas or Hakonechloa (Japanese Forest Grass) beneath a woodland canopy, as they share similar moisture and shade preferences. For sunnier spots, shorter Geranium varieties or creeping Thyme can offer ground cover that contrasts nicely with the upright spurs of the Columbine.

Wildlife Benefits

The unique, long-spurred structure of the Columbine flower is specifically adapted to attract long-tongued pollinators, most notably hummingbirds, which find the nectar highly rewarding. Planting the Aquilegia ‘Spezialrasse’ creates a vital early-season food source when many other nectar flowers have not yet emerged. While the foliage itself is pest-resistant to grazing deer and rabbits, the flowers are crucial for supporting avian wildlife early in the growing season.