Family

Ranunculaceae

Description

‘Black Barlow’ is a double-flowered cultivar of European columbine known for its spurless, deeply colored blooms in shades of maroon to near-black. Unlike native columbines with nectar spurs for long-tongued pollinators, this selection emphasizes ornamental impact over ecological function. Its upright, branching stems hold flowers well above the delicate, blue-green foliage, adding a moody element to late spring borders. This short-lived perennial often reseeds in suitable conditions.

Derived from Aquilegia vulgaris, which is native to meadows, woodland edges, and rocky slopes of Europe, ‘Black Barlow’ grows best in moist, well-drained soils in part shade. While less attractive to hummingbirds than native A. canadensis, it still draws bees and blends well with both traditional perennials and naturalistic plantings.

Bloom Time

May to June