Aquilegia Black Barlow, commonly known as granny’s bonnet or columbine, is a striking cultivar known for its deep, almost black, double flowers. Aquilegia Black Barlow is a cultivated variety of the Aquilegia species, which is native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. This particular variety was developed for ornamental purposes and is popular in gardens for its unique appearance. Columbines generally grow in woodland edges, meadows, and rocky areas.

Aquilegia species, including Black Barlow, are not considered edible and can be toxic if ingested. The plant contains toxic compounds such as cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal upset to more serious effects. Therefore, it is not recommended for consumption.

How to Grow Aquilegia Black Barlow from Seed

Aquilegia Black Barlow is fairly easy to grow and can thrive in many Australian climates. Here’s how to grow it from seed:

Seed Preparation:

Seeds can be sown directly into the garden or started indoors.
Cold stratification (simulating winter conditions) is helpful but not strictly necessary. To improve germination, place the seeds in the refrigerator for 4-6 weeks before sowing.

Sowing:

Sow the seeds in seed trays or directly into the garden after the last frost.
Sow them just below the surface, around 1-2 mm deep, as they need light to germinate.
Space the seeds about 20-30 cm apart in the garden.

Soil and Location:

Aquilegia prefers well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
They do well in both full sun and partial shade, though they tend to thrive in dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade in hotter climates.

Watering:

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during germination and early growth. Once established, they are moderately drought-tolerant.

Germination:

Seeds typically germinate in 2-4 weeks, though it may take longer in cooler conditions.

Growth and Maintenance:

Aquilegia Black Barlow will flower in its second year and produces blooms from late spring to early summer.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding unless you wish for the plant to spread naturally.

Aquilegias are perennials, and they will return year after year with minimal care.
They can benefit from an occasional feed of general-purpose fertiliser in the growing season.

Pests:

Aphids may attack young plants, but they can be controlled with soapy water or natural predators.

Aquilegia Black Barlow is a wonderful addition to cottage gardens or mixed flower beds, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies while adding dramatic dark blooms.

PICTURES BY:

Photo by and (c)2008 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man). Chanticleer Garden., CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons

Syrio, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons