Earlybird™ Blue White Aquilegia

Earlybird™ Blue White Columbine is a compact Aquilegia × hybrida selected for blue-and-white flowers and an early, concentrated flowering display. PanAmerican Seed describes the Earlybird plants as well-mounded with relatively short stems; Blue White is slightly more slender than the rest of the series. Use it near the front of a sunny or lightly shaded border, in a woodland edge, or in a container where its short stature can be seen. ### Size and season [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/Products/005709017000751/aquilegia-earlybird-blue-white/) lists mature plants at 9–11 inches tall and 8–10 inches wide, with flowering seasons from early spring through summer depending on production and local climate. It is listed for USDA zones 3a–9b and can flower in its first year from seed. The breeder describes a 10–12 day flowering window for early-spring programs; garden flowering varies with conditions. ### Siting and soil Give plants sun or partial sun and fertile soil that drains freely ([PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/Products/005709017000751/aquilegia-earlybird-blue-white/); [RHS Aquilegia guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/aquilegia/growing-guide)). Keep the root zone from becoming bone dry, while avoiding waterlogged soil. The compact habit works well in small borders and containers, but allow room for airflow around foliage. ## Maintenance Water young plants regularly as they establish and during extended dry spells. After flowers fade, deadhead to tidy the clump or leave some seed heads if you want seedlings; hybrid seedlings may not match the parent. Cut tired foliage back after flowering to encourage a fresh flush.