Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow – Elegant burgundy columbine

The Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow is a beautiful perennial garden plant with deep burgundy flowers that add a rich, warm look to borders, rockeries, and natural gardens. Also called red columbine, this cultivar is beloved for its graceful flowers and long bloom period from May to July.

The Bordeaux Barlow offers an intense and luxurious splash of color in the garden. Its warm burgundy flowers contrast beautifully with white, pink, or blue blooms, creating a romantic and stylish effect. With finely divided green leaves and upright stems, the Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow adds height, texture, and charm to any garden.

Origin and characteristics

Aquilegia vulgaris, the common columbine, is a native European plant known for its reliable flowering and ornamental beauty. The Bordeaux Barlow has been selected for its strong stems, healthy growth, and vibrant flowers, making it suitable for both formal and informal gardens.

Characteristics of Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow:

• Flower color: deep red to burgundy, trumpet-shaped flowers

• Height: 60–90 cm, upright flower stems

• Flowering period: May – July (spring to early summer)

• Leaf: fine, green, feathery and graceful

• Uses: borders, rock gardens, picking gardens, natural gardens

The flowers have a long shelf life as cut flowers, making them ideal for bouquets and flower arrangements.

Location and care

The Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow grows best in a partially shaded to sunny spot with fertile, well-drained soil. It's low-maintenance and can bloom for several years in the same spot, making it a sustainable choice for any gardening enthusiast.

Growing and care tips:

• Sowing: indoors in early spring or directly in the garden after the last frost

• Planting distance: 25–30 cm for optimal air circulation

• Soil: nutritious, slightly moist and well-drained

• Water: regularly during dry periods

• Support: usually not necessary, but tall varieties can be supported

• Promote flowering: Removing spent flowers encourages repeat flowering

The Bordeaux Barlow is robust and resistant to common pests and diseases, making it a reliable perennial addition to any garden.

Use in garden and balcony

Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow is versatile in use:

• Spring and summer borders: adds height, color and depth

• Rock gardens: combine with light colours such as white, pink or blue for an intense contrast

• Pick-your-own garden: suitable for luxurious bouquets

• Natural gardens: attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators for biodiversity

Thanks to its deep red flowers, the Bordeaux Barlow creates a romantic and stylish effect, whether planted as a solitary plant or in groups.

Bee-friendly and sustainable

The Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow is a bee-friendly plant that attracts various pollinators and contributes to a healthy and biodiverse garden. It's a sustainable choice: once planted, this perennial can bloom for years with minimal care.

Summary

Conclusion

The Aquilegia vulgaris Bordeaux Barlow is a luxurious, burgundy-red summer bloomer that adds elegance, color, and biodiversity to the garden. Thanks to its strong stems, rich color, and easy care, it's an excellent choice for romantic borders, cutting gardens, and stylish garden designs.