Whether in blue, violet, white, red or two-tone - the columbine brings zest to the perennial border. With its extraordinarily delicate flowers, it sets great accents alongside perennials such as hostas and hydrangeas. But is it a perennial for life?

The columbine is perennial, but usually does not get older than three years

Average lifespan: 2 to 3 years

Life is short-lived for the multitude of columbine varieties on the market. The average life expectancy is 2 to 3 years. Then the columbine admits defeat and dies. Under good site conditions and with optimal care, the Columbine can be up to 5 years old. This means that the columbine is considered a perennial but short-lived perennial.

Self-sowing - the secret of columbine

The short lifespan of columbines is often not noticed. Why? Because the columbine multiplies happily via self-sowing. As a result, it remains represented at its location for many years.

But many a gardener is almost in despair and sees the columbine less as a pretty perennial and more as a weed that grows everywhere and even in cracks in the wall. Those who feel this way should cut off the faded flowers before the seeds can form and mature.

It survives the winter with no problems

Frosty temperatures are no problem for a columbine:

  • hardy to -25 °C in sheltered locations
  • hardy to -20 °C in unprotected locations
  • in late summer she dies
  • survives with its rhizome
  • New shoots between February and March
  • Cut back in fall or spring

Aspects that keep the columbine healthy and strong

So that the columbine can last for many years, it should find optimal site conditions. It prefers to grow in a partially shaded location. The soil should be calcareous, rich in humus and permeable. In terms of care, it benefits from regular fertilizer (organic fertilizer), appropriate watering and pruning before the seeds are ripe. Dividing this perennial is also recommended in old age.

tips and tricks

The choice of location for the columbine should be carefully considered! Anyone who has their perennial bed next to the vegetable patch should not be surprised if columbines soon sprout in the vegetable patch.

Category:

Herbs