Columbine Barlow Purple is a charming heirloom perennial known for its rich, deep purple, fully double blooms that resemble small pom-poms. Blooming in late spring to early summer, this elegant variety adds old-fashioned beauty to cottage gardens, borders, and woodland settings. It’s also a favourite of pollinators, especially bees.
Compact yet eye-catching, Barlow Purple pairs beautifully with spring bulbs and other early perennials, and it readily naturalizes in the garden under the right conditions.
Planting Instructions
Cold Stratification (Recommended for Best Germination):
Mix seeds with slightly damp sand or vermiculite
Refrigerate for 2–4 weeks
Alternatively, sow outdoors in fall for natural stratification
Indoor Sowing:
Start seeds 6–8 weeks before last frost
Surface sow or cover very lightly with soil
Keep soil evenly moist but not wet
Germination: 14–28 days
Transplant outdoors after danger of frost
Direct Sowing Outdoors:
Sow in fall or early spring
Press seeds gently into soil surface
Keep moist until seedlings are established
Care Tips
Sun: Full sun to partial shade (prefers afternoon shade in hot areas)
Soil: Well-drained, average to moderately fertile soil
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Spacing: 12–18 inches apart
Height: 24–30 inches
Maintenance: Deadhead to prolong bloom; allow some flowers to set seed for natural reseeding
Hardiness: Cold hardy perennial (Zones 3–8)
Columbine Barlow Purple is ideal for gardeners looking for a graceful, low-maintenance perennial with unique double flowers and excellent early-season colour.
