Colorado Blue Columbine
Aquilegia caerulea
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Consistent moisture
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Aquilegia caerulea, commonly known as Colorado Blue Columbine, is a perennial wildflower native to the western United States. It features unique blue and white flowers with spurred petals. This species is the state flower of Colorado and is known for its unique flower structure and ability to thrive in rocky or well-drained soils.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Prune spent flowers to encourage additional blooms throughout summer.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to maintain vigor.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth
- Avoid planting in full sun in very hot regions
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Colorado Blue Columbine questions
What zones can Colorado Blue Columbine grow in?
Colorado Blue Columbine is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Colorado Blue Columbine deer resistant?
Yes — Colorado Blue Columbine is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Colorado Blue Columbine bloom?
Colorado Blue Columbine typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Colorado Blue Columbine need full sun?
Colorado Blue Columbine does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Aquilegia to compare
Columbine Mix
Aquilegia x hybrida 'Mix'
Columbine Double Flowers
Aquilegia vulgaris 'Double Flowers'
Columbine
Aquilegia x hybrida 'Melba Higgins'
Columbine McKana Hybrids
Aquilegia vulgaris 'McKana Hybrids'
Biedermeier Columbine
Aquilegia vulgaris 'Biedermeier'
Tequila Sunrise Columbine
Aquilegia x hybrida 'Tequila Sunrise'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Colorado Blue Columbine with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
