columbine

‘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.