This genus of perennials have slender stems that form a compact rounded clump. They have green to grey green wedge-shaped leaves and the bell-shaped single or double flowers are available in a wide range of colours and appear from spring to summer. 

Hardiness zones 3 to 9

Aquilegia species is naturally found from Europe to North America growing in dry to moist deciduous woodlands or mountainous regions. 

They prefer a well drained fertile moist light soil and will tolerate lime and grows in a open sunny to semi shaded protected position and is drought and frost tolerant. 

Columbines are grown for their flowers and clumping habit. They are planted along perennial borders in small or cottage gardens or used in rockeries. They establish in one season but are short lived. Columbine is also mass planted for bedding displays or grown in patio pots or planter boxes. They often self seed and give a continuing display of blooms and are suitable for inland or coastal regions. ID 360 

Aquilegia (ăp-kwi-LEE-gee-a) species

Ranunculaceae (ra-nun-kew-LAY-see-ee)   
Buttercups, Monkshood, Cohosh, Columbine