Aquilegia Winky Double Rose White - Columbine

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Winky Double Rose White', like all plants in the 'Winky' series, brings a breath of fresh air to the floral world of garden columbines. This one, very recent and not very tall, produces an abundance of double flowers, with such a tight core that it evokes small roses nestled in a columbine corolla. They are bicolour, in a blend of pink and white, and are widely exposed, raising their corollas towards the sky. The very floriferous plant, develops small bushy and vigorous clumps, with fine bluish foliage, resistant to mildew. This small perennial, both picturesque and romantic, will bring a lot of character to flower beds and pots, in moist soil and partial shade.

Aquilegia vulgaris 'Winky Double Rose White' belongs to the family of ranunculaceae. It is a recent cultivar from the 'Winky' series that stands out for its round and double flowers, and excellent floribundity. It is a very hardy herbaceous perennial, forming a compact and upright, leafy clump, reaching a height of 30 to 35 cm (12 to 14in) when in bloom, with a width of 25 cm (10in) from which floral stems branch out upwards. From May to June, tall stems rise, at the top of which beautiful 4 cm (2in) diameter flowers open, grouped in 2 or 3, facing upwards. They have long horned spurs and the flower's centre is a mix of white and pink, the surrounding petals are solid pink. Its deciduous bluish-green foliage is quite decorative; the cut of the basal leaves gives a sense of lightness.

Columbines were already cultivated in flower beds in the Middle Ages and cottage gardens have perpetuated the tradition. Compact and unassuming, they are essential in mixed borders, where they bring lightness. They can be planted in many different areas of the garden, taking care to leave a 20 cm (8in) space around each plant: in the middle of a perennial bed, in a border, at the base of bushes, along woodland edges or on a slope. They will look magnificent when planted in groups to create a dense clump. Pick them when they are just starting to open for beautiful country-style bouquets. In woodlands, in a 'romantic garden' spirit, 'Winky Double Rose White' can be paired with all kinds of perennials, such as ferns, foxgloves, Bleeding Hearts, or corydalis. Its modest size allows it to be grown in pots, where it performs well.