A compact columbine with deep red and yellow nodding flowers above blue-green foliage from May to July. Height and Spread 20cm. Full sun/part shade. Hardy.
Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ is a charming perennial that adds delicate beauty to gardens with its vibrant red and yellow blooms. This compact variety is perfect for borders, woodland gardens, and containers. Follow this detailed planting guide to ensure your Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ thrives year after year.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ in early spring as the soil warms. This gives the plant an excellent head start before the active growing season.
Autumn: For another option, plant in early autumn to allow the roots to establish before winter dormancy.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ prefers partial shade but can also grow in full sun, especially in cooler regions. Aim for a location with dappled sunlight or morning sun followed by afternoon shade.
Soil: This perennial thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Adding compost or leaf mold enhances soil fertility and drainage, promoting robust growth.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and about the same depth. This provides ample room for root development.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost into the existing soil to enrich it. Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ benefits from nutrient-rich soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Planting: Position the plant so the crown sits level with the soil surface. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Maintain consistently moist soil during the active growing period. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy, providing only enough moisture to keep the soil from becoming bone dry.
Feeding
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
Mid-season feeding with a diluted fertilizer helps prolong blooming and keeps the plant healthy.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooms and prevent self-seeding. This keeps Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ looking neat and vibrant.
End-of-Season Care: Cut back foliage to the base in late autumn once the plant has finished flowering. This helps prepare it for winter dormancy.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the plant base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like bark chips or compost work best.
Winter: Add an extra layer of mulch during winter to insulate the roots and protect against frost.
Supporting your Aquilegia
This compact variety generally does not require staking, but in windy conditions, you can use light supports to prevent damage.
Final Tips
Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ is a low-maintenance perennial that rewards gardeners with vibrant blooms and elegant foliage. Plant it in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, and provide consistent moisture during the growing season. With proper care, Aquilegia canadensis ‘Little Lanterns’ will grace your garden with its delightful flowers, creating a stunning display in borders, woodland settings, or containers.
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