Aquilegia vulgaris 'William Guinness'
perennial

William Guinness columbine

Aquilegia vulgaris 'William Guinness'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Asia

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Herbaceous perennial known for its attractive flowers and divided leaves. William Guinness features unique dark purple flowers with a distinctive, contrasting white center.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesElegant, bell-shaped flowers add charm to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesAttracts pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and nectar for bees and hummingbirds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly every few days to maintain humidity.
  3. Plant in well-draining soil with partial shade for optimal growth.
  4. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
  6. Divide clumps in early spring or fall to propagate new plants.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
  • Prune spent flowers to encourage reblooming
  • Fertilize monthly during active growth

Don't

  • Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy, waterlogged soil
  • Refrain from excessive fertilizing which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland garden borderDelicate cut flower in bouquetsWildlife-friendly flower bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Heuchera Astilbe Bleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

William Guinness columbine questions

What zones can William Guinness columbine grow in?

William Guinness 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 William Guinness columbine deer resistant?

Yes β€” William Guinness columbine is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does William Guinness columbine bloom?

William Guinness columbine typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does William Guinness columbine need full sun?

William Guinness columbine does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow William Guinness 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.

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