Species fan columbine
Blue-white flowers and green leaves with green stem.

fan columbine

Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila 'Silver Edge'

The fan columbine, also known as Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila 'Silver Edge', is a sight to behold with its stunning blue and white bell-shaped flowers. The name "fan columbine" refers to its unique foliage that opens up in the shape of a fan. Low-growing and dwarf, it can fit into small garden spaces and make a big impact with its mounding habit and incredible display of blooming flowers. In late spring and early summer, you can expect the white petals with just a hint of blue to blanket your garden in a truly breathtaking way. Fan columbine is a delight to behold!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Blue Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver,green,white

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Fan columbine (Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila 'Silver Edge') needs to be watered regularly to ensure its growth. Newly planted specimens should be watered every 7-10 days if the soil is dry, while well established plants should be watered once or twice a week depending on the soil’s moisture content. During hot, dry summer months, fan columbine will appreciate additional water, like a deep soak once or twice a week. Be sure not to over water, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Check the soil for moisture before watering, and let the top layer of soil dry out slightly between waterings.

sunlight

Fan columbine (Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila 'Silver Edge') requires at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight each day. Place in a location with bright indirect light or partial shade throughout the rest of the day to avoid burning the leaves. Be sure to monitor the plant's health carefully, especially during the hottest months, as too much direct sunlight can damage it. Additionally, avoid placing the plant in areas with intense reflected light, such as windows facing south, as this can also cause damage over time.

pruning

Fan Columbine should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Prune back any dead or damaged foliage to promote healthy growth. To maintain size and encourage more blooms, lightly prune the plant if it has become too large or unruly. Cut back the stalks in late spring or early summer, leaving a few short stems with leafy growth at the base. Remove spent flowers and weak or spindly center stems to encourage bushy growth and more flowers. If the plant is overgrown, cut back by up to a third.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Fan columbine typically starts flowering in April and May.

Hardiness Map