The Story
Plant Bio
Aquilegia flabellata 'Silver Edge' is a perennial herbaceous plant with finely divided, fern-like foliage and distinctive bell-shaped flowers that feature white petals with silver-edged edges, creating an elegant display.
This cultivar is notable for its striking silver-edged foliage that enhances its ornamental appeal, making it a standout choice for shaded gardens and woodland settings.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moist
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Place in partial shade for optimal growth
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall
Pro Tip
Provide partial shade and consistent moisture for best results
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist
- Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
- Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot
- Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates ☀️
- Refrain from heavy pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Aquilegia Silver Edge questions
What zones can Aquilegia Silver Edge grow in?
Aquilegia Silver Edge 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 Aquilegia Silver Edge deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Aquilegia Silver Edge, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Aquilegia Silver Edge bloom?
Aquilegia Silver Edge 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 Aquilegia Silver Edge need full sun?
Aquilegia Silver Edge does best in part shade.
More Aquilegia to compare
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Aquilegia x hybrida 'Mix'
Columbine Double Flowers
Aquilegia vulgaris 'Double Flowers'
Melba Higgins 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
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Aquilegia Silver Edge 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.