Columbine Seeds, Leprechaun Gold

star-filled
4.4
4 Reviews
Sku:
#FL682
Min. seed count:
15
$3.50

Description

(Aquilegia vulgaris). Herbaceous perennial; hardy from zones 4a to 8b. With its stunning, marbled colors, one could justify growing this columbine just for the foliage alone, but the pendulous, deep purple flower heads are the cherry on top. The clover-shaped foliage grows 18 inches tall in mounds; the tall, slender flower stems reach to 24 inches tall and are topped with nodding blooms in midnight plum color. Try this dramatic, cold-hardy perennial in wooded areas, cottage gardens, beds, borders, and even pots and containers. Keep out of reach of pets, as it may be toxic to them in large quantities.

  • Perennial

  • 120-300 days to maturity

  • 4-6 hours of full to partial sun

  • Sprouts in 21-36 days

  • Seed Depth: 1/8-1/4“

  • Plant Spacing: 10-12"

  • Ideal Temperature: 65-70 F

  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Leprechaun Gold columbine is a beautiful heirloom that grows best indoors. This variety prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler regions. It grows best in well-draining, loose soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Columbine is deer-resistant and attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.

When to Grow

Direct sow seeds in place 3-4 weeks before the last frost date in your region or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. It usually blooms in its second year after establishing strong roots in its first growing season. The seeds germinate best indoors. If you’re unsure of your last frost date, consult our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

How to Sow and Plant

If starting indoors, place seeds in moistened trays and refrigerate for 3-4 weeks before sowing. Once stratified, sow seeds 1/8-1/4 inch deep in seed trays or directly in the garden. Keep the soil consistently moist during germination, which may take 21-36 days. The ideal soil temperature for germination is 65-70 F. Space the plants 10-12 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation.

How to Grow

Water deeply when the top inch of soil dries out, especially during hot or dry periods. Fertilize lightly in early spring using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming and prevent aggressive self-seeding. In late fall, cut back dead foliage to encourage fresh spring growth.

How to Save

  • Mature flower petals will fall off exposing the seed pod.

  • Harvest the mature seed pods when they have turned from green to brown.

  • You may open and empty the pods or place them in a brown paper bag and shake them to release the seeds from their pods.

  • Each pod will encase many small, shiny, black seeds.

  • Store the seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place until you are ready to plant.

FAQ

Can I grow Leprechaun Gold columbine in containers?
Yes, columbine can be grown in pots with well-draining soil and adequate moisture. Choose containers that have drainage holes to prevent root rot.

How long does it take for Leprechaun Gold columbine to bloom?
Columbine plants typically bloom in their second year when grown from seed. If started early indoors, some may bloom in their first year.

Is Leprechaun Gold columbine toxic to pets?
Yes, columbine contains alkaloids that can be toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities. Keep it out of reach of curious animals.

delivery
FREE SHIPPING IN THE U. S. A. Alternate domestic shipping options available at checkout
Columbine Seeds, Leprechaun Gold
star-filled
4.4
Customer reviews (4)
$3.50
x