How to Grow Columbine Black Barlow
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Columbine Black Barlow
Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow'
flowerBlack Barlow is a stunning double-flowered columbine variety featuring dark purple, almost black nodding blooms with a unique pompom-like appearance. This heirloom cultivar is a dramatic garden specimen that attracts hummingbirds and pollinators while providing sophisticated color contrast in shade gardens. It's a perennial that typically grows 24-36 inches tall and blooms in late spring to early summer.
When should you plant Columbine Black Barlow in your zone?
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Example Columbine Black Barlow timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Columbine Black Barlow
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Columbine Black Barlow blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Columbine Black Barlow dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 3-8
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Get my Columbine Black Barlow timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksDelicate first leaves emerge; seedlings have thin stems and small compound foliage
Provide bright, indirect light; keep soil moist but not soggy; thin seedlings to prevent damping off
Vegetative Growth
10-12 monthsPlant develops rosette of finely divided, fern-like foliage; compact mounding form
Water regularly; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; remove any flower buds the first year to encourage root establishment
Bud Formation
3-4 weeksDelicate branching stems emerge from foliage base; buds begin to form at stem tips in late spring
Maintain consistent moisture; support tall stems if needed; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues
Flowering
6-8 weeksStunning dark purple-black double flowers (doubled and spurless) nod gracefully from arching stems; long bloom period
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming; stake taller stems for support; watch for pests and disease
Seed Production & Dormancy
4-8 weeks until dormancyFlowers fade; seed pods develop if flowers left unharvested; foliage gradually dies back in summer heat
Allow some flowers to set seed for self-sowing; cut back dead foliage in fall; applies mulch for winter protection in cold zones
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick affected leaves; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators
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Remove affected leaves; apply neem oil spray; improve air circulation
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Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs
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and
Hand-pick; apply diatomaceous earth; remove debris; use copper tape barriers
Uses
Edible Flower Garnish
CulinaryBlack Barlow petals are edible and add dramatic visual impact to salads, desserts, and cocktails. The flowers provide striking color contrast in fine dining presentations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Design
CraftThe unique double-pompom blooms are excellent for cutting gardens and create stunning focal points in floral arrangements. The dark color adds sophistication to mixed bouquets. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeColumbines are renowned for attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies to the garden. The nodding flowers are specifically adapted for hummingbird feeding. [source]
Shade Garden Specimen Plant
HouseholdBlack Barlow serves as an architectural focal point in woodland and shade gardens, providing height, texture, and distinctive color. It thrives in areas where many flowering plants struggle. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalAquilegia vulgaris has been used in traditional European herbalism for respiratory and digestive support, though modern scientific evidence is limited. The plant contains ranunculin, a compound with potential antifungal properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in the morning for longer vase life; use sharp scissors to take 6-12 inches of stem; black flowers are dramatic in arrangements and last 7-10 days in water. Allow some flowers to dry on plant for seed collection in late summer; harvest seed pods when fully brown and papery
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Black Barlow is an heirloom cultivar dating back to at least the 18th century, prized for its unusual double-flowered form that lacks the typical spurs found on regular columbines
- 🌱 The botanical name 'Aquilegia' derives from the Latin word 'aquila' meaning 'eagle,' as the spurred petals resemble eagle claws
- 🌱 This variety is often called a 'European columbine' and has been mentioned in period garden literature dating to Victorian times
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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