Black Barlow Columbine

Other Names: Clematis-flowered Columbine, var. stellata

Description:

Exotic, dark purple (nearly-black) double flowers, the small spurless flowers are pompom shaped and resemble a small dahlia; this plant doesn't like to be disturbed so try spreading seed instead of dividing

Ornamental Features:

Black Barlow Columbine features dainty nodding deep purple ball-shaped flowers at the ends of the stems from late spring to early summer. The flowers are excellent for cutting. It's ferny compound leaves remain bluish-green in colour throughout the season. The fruit is not ornamentally significant.

Landscape Attributes:

Black Barlow Columbine is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance perennial, and should be cut back in late fall in preparation for winter. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Insects

Black Barlow Columbine is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Rock/Alpine Gardens
• Mass Planting
• General Garden Use
• Border Edging
• Naturalizing And Woodland Gardens
• Groundcover
• Container Planting

Plant Characteristics:

Black Barlow Columbine will grow to be about 18 inches tall at maturity extending to 24 inches tall with the flowers, with a spread of 24 inches. Its foliage tends to remain dense right to the ground, not requiring facer plants in front. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 5 years.

This perennial performs well in both full sun and full shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This plant can be propagated by seed.

This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.