Columbine

The columbine flower, also known as granny’s bonnet, is a hardy and resilient perennial that thrives in USDA zones 3 through 9. Preferring full sun but able to tolerate some shade, columbines bloom beautifully in spring and summer, attracting butterflies, birds, and other pollinators. Their delicate blossoms give way to attractive green foliage that often turns a striking purple or red in the fall. These drought-tolerant plants dislike overwatering and are best started indoors 8–10 weeks before the last spring frost or sown directly in the fall by gently pressing seeds into the soil. After blooming, columbines die back to the ground at dormancy and benefit from a layer of mulch before the ground freezes to protect their roots. With minimal care, they bring both beauty and resilience to any garden.