Aquilegia vulgaris 'Nora Barlow' – Rare, Elegant Perennial for Stunning Garden Displays

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Nora Barlow' is a rare and exquisite perennial known for its fully double, spurless blooms in shades of pink, white, and green. With its graceful, nodding flowers and delicate, fern-like foliage, this variety of Columbine brings a romantic, cottage-garden charm to any landscape. Blooming in late spring to early summer, 'Nora Barlow' is an easy-to-grow, pollinator-friendly plant that thrives in a variety of garden settings.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Aquilegia vulgaris 'Nora Barlow'
• Common Name: Columbine 'Nora Barlow'
• Plant Type: Perennial flowering plant
• Flower Color: Shades of pink, white, and green
• Mature Height: 24 to 36 inches
• Spread: 12 to 18 inches
• Growth Habit: Upright, clumping
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moist, fertile soil (neutral to slightly acidic pH)
• Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates short dry periods
• Blooming Season: Late spring to early summer
• Uses: Borders, cottage gardens, woodland gardens, pollinator-friendly landscapes

Why Grow Aquilegia vulgaris 'Nora Barlow'?

• Rare & Unique Blooms – Unusual double, spurless flowers with a charming color palette.
• Pollinator-Friendly – Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Shade Tolerant & Versatile – Thrives in partial shade as well as sunny garden spots.
• Low Maintenance & Hardy – Easy to grow and self-seeds for naturalized beauty.
• Deer & Rabbit Resistant – Foliage is generally unappealing to common garden pests.

How to Grow Aquilegia vulgaris 'Nora Barlow' from Seeds

Seed Sowing Instructions

• Best Time to Sow: Late summer to early spring
• Pre-Treatment:
  • Cold stratification improves germination. Store seeds in a moist paper towel inside the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks before sowing.
• Sowing Method:
  • Direct sow outdoors in fall or start indoors in seed trays in early spring.
  • Lightly press seeds onto the soil surface—do not cover deeply, as they need light for germination.
• Germination Conditions:
  • Soil Temperature: 55-65°F (13-18°C)
  • Germination Time: 3-6 weeks

Care and Maintenance

• Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during establishment.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming and prevent excessive self-seeding.
• Winter Care: Hardy in most climates; apply mulch in colder regions for extra root protection.

Companion Planting Suggestions

• Complements Foxgloves, Delphiniums, and Lupines for a classic cottage garden look.
• Pairs well with Hostas, Ferns, and Heucheras in partially shaded garden beds.
• Looks stunning alongside Alliums, Bellflowers, and Salvia in mixed perennial borders.

Add a Touch of Timeless Elegance to Your Garden

With its delicate, intricate blooms, effortless charm, and pollinator-friendly nature, Aquilegia vulgaris 'Nora Barlow' is a perfect choice for gardeners looking to cultivate something truly special. Whether planted in cottage gardens, woodland edges, or perennial borders, this rare and elegant Columbine is sure to impress year after year.