Swan Lavender Aquilegia

Swan Lavender is a clump-forming columbine with upward-facing flowers: rich lavender-purple spurs and outer petals surround bright white inner petals. Its leafy basal mound and taller flowering stems suit spring borders, cottage gardens, and small cut-flower groupings. ## Flowers and placement The [RHS cultivar profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/334455/aquilegia-swan-lavender-swan-series/details) describes large flowers from late spring to early summer on a plant reaching about 60 cm. PanAmerican Seed’s [Aquilegia brochure](https://www.panamseed.com/PdfAssets/pdfpage.aspx?pdfid=15) also lists Swan Lavender among its Swan selections. ## Growing conditions Grow in full sun or partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. In hot-summer climates, partial shade can protect foliage and extend its useful display. Columbines are often short-lived; seedlings may not reproduce the parent’s flower color. ## Seasonal role The lavender and white flowers add a cool-toned spring accent beside later perennials, and the stems can be cut for arrangements. RHS lists wildlife gardens, borders, containers, and cut flowers as suitable uses for Swan Lavender. ## Maintenance Deadhead spent flowers to reduce self-seeding and keep the plant tidy. Cut foliage back as it fades after flowering; established plants may be divided in spring but can recover slowly after root disturbance.