Species

Aquilegia caeruleaColorado Blue Columbine

2 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Songbird Dove Columbine

Aquilegia caerulea 'Songbird Dove'

The Story

Plant Bio

This cultivar features delicate, white flowers with a charming cup shape and is known for its graceful foliage.

Songbird Dove is a unique cultivar that offers white blooms, differing from the more commonly seen blue and purple varieties of Aquilegia caerulea.

Uses & Benefits:

Aquilegia caerulea Songbird Dove offers elegant, bell-shaped blue flowers that add charm to shaded garden borders and woodland scenes.

Its early bloom provides nectar for pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.

Serves as a nectar source for hummingbirds and bees, enhancing biodiversity.

SpeciesAquilegia caeruleaColorado Blue Columbine

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to keep humidity high during propagation.
Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist, especially during bloom.
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth.
Divide clumps in early spring or late fall for propagation.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use a well-draining soil mix and provide partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth
Feed with a balanced fertilizer monthly

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to harsh afternoon sun in hot climates
Never neglect to remove spent flowers to promote rebloom

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

Delicate border plant with blue flowersWildflower garden accentShady woodland garden feature

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Columbines Bleeding Heart Solomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Songbird Dove Columbine questions

What zones can Songbird Dove Columbine grow in?

Songbird Dove Columbine is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Songbird Dove Columbine deer resistant?

Yes — Songbird Dove Columbine is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Songbird Dove Columbine bloom?

Songbird Dove Columbine typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Songbird Dove Columbine need full sun?

Songbird Dove Columbine does best in part shade.