Clementine Blue Columbine

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Clementine Blue' is a compact, short-lived perennial whose double, upward-facing blue flowers have a yellow center. Its fine, divided foliage forms a low mound, with flowers held above it in late spring and early summer. ## Flowers and garden use The clematis-like flowers bring a clear blue accent to borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, and containers. The cultivar is typically listed around 12–18 inches tall, though garden references vary in their reported spread and flowering height. It may self-seed; seedlings can differ from the named parent. ## Siting and soil Plant in full sun or partial shade. Columbines grow best in soil that holds some moisture while draining freely; avoid persistently wet ground. Flowering is generally concentrated in late spring into early summer, with timing shifting by climate. ## Maintenance Water during dry spells while plants establish and during prolonged dry weather. Remove faded stems if you want to limit self-seeding or keep the clump tidy; leave selected stems if seed is desired. Columbines are short-lived perennials, so allowing some seedlings to establish can renew a planting. Sources: [Red Butte Garden](https://redbuttegarden.org/plants/species/3645/) and [Heritage Perennials](https://www.perennials.com/plants/aquilegia-vulgaris-clementine-blue.html).