Columbine - Giant Mckana

Depth 1/4”

Spacing 8-10”

Height: 30”

Post Germination Water Needs: Average

Light: Full Sun

Days To Maturity: 60-90

Aquilegia x hybrida

Overview

The Giant McKana Columbine is a striking perennial known for its large, showy flowers that come in a variety of colors, including reds, yellows, pinks, and purples. This hybrid has a more robust growth habit than other columbines, reaching up to 36 inches tall. It blooms in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators like hummingbirds and bees. The plant has a unique spurred flower shape, which adds an extra dimension to gardens.

Planting and Care

• Sun Requirements: Prefers full sun to part shade. Too much shade may result in leggy growth.

• Soil: Grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells, but make sure the soil drains well to avoid root rot.

• Fertilizing: While not heavy feeders, they benefit from light fertilization in spring, especially if the soil is poor.

• Pruning: Remove spent blooms to encourage additional flowering and tidy growth. Once the plant goes dormant in fall, you can cut back the stems to the ground.

Companion plants

• Hostas (for shade-loving balance)

• Foxgloves (for dramatic vertical height)

• Bleeding heart (Dicentra species)

• Daylilies (to complement the columbine's blooming season)

• Lavender (for a contrast of color and texture)

• Coneflowers (Echinacea) for a contrasting texture and flower shape.