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Pot Size Guide

Flowering Calendar

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Aquilegia ‘Nora Barlow’
(Granny's Bonnet)

£18.00

£18.00

Out of stock

April - July
100cm x 100cm
Partial Shade, Sun
Attracts Wildlife
Fully Hardy

Nothing says cottage garden more than Aquilegia and here’s our favourite – with it’s dainty, vintage colour, Aquilegia ‘Nora Barlow’ brings timeless romance to the garden with romantic, pom-pom double blooms in soft pink and green, fading to cream at the tips. Flowering in late spring, it gracefully fills the gap between spring bulbs and summer displays, while attracting bees and pollinators. Hardy and easy to grow, it’s perfect for naturalistic borders, cut flowers and classic cottage garden charm.

Flowering Calendar

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Additional information

Plant Type
Flowering Period
Flower Colour
Fully Grown Size
Foliage
Hardiness
Garden Position
Light Level
RHS Plants For Pollinators
RHS Garden Merit Award
Pot Size
Warning
30 Day Returns

Yes

Lifetime Guarantee

Yes

Description

Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata ‘Nora Barlow’ is a beloved cottage garden favourite, renowned for its intricate, fully double flowers in soft pink and green, tipped with cream, that bloom profusely from late spring into early summer. Each flower resembles a tiny pom-pom, adding unique texture and a delicate splash of colour to borders, wildlife gardens and naturalistic planting schemes. Reaching around 80–90 cm tall, ‘Nora Barlow’ provides graceful vertical interest, weaving naturally among other perennials. Its fern-like foliage creates attractive mounds of fresh green leaves, looking pretty even after flowering. Hardy and easy to grow in sun or partial shade, Aquilegia ‘Nora Barlow’ thrives in well-drained soil and is perfect for low-maintenance gardeners. It self-seeds gently without becoming invasive, ensuring delightful blooms year after year. Bees and pollinators adore its nectar-rich flowers, while its romantic, old-fashioned charm makes it ideal for classic English borders or cutting gardens. Whether in cottage gardens, mixed beds, or naturalised planting, Aquilegia ‘Nora Barlow’ brings beauty, reliability, and wildlife appeal with minimal effort.

Planting Conditions

To cultivate thriving Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow,' choose a location with well-drained soil and partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Plant in early Spring or Autumn, ensuring they are spaced about 12 inches apart. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds. With these conditions, Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow,' will flourish, offering its distinctive dark blooms and delicate foliage for the ideal cottage garden design.

Watering & Feeding

For Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow,,' maintain consistent soil moisture by watering regularly, especially during dry spells. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every four to six weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Monitor soil moisture levels and adjust watering frequency as needed, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. With proper watering and feeding, 'Barlow Black' will thrive and reward you with its striking dark blooms season after season.

General Care

Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow,' requires minimal care but benefits from occasional attention. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering if you wish to prevent self-seeding. Remove any damaged or yellowing foliage to maintain the plant's overall health and appearance. Pruning is generally unnecessary unless you want to control the plant's size or shape. However, if the plant becomes overcrowded, thin out excess growth to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. With these simple care practices, 'Nora Barlow' will flourish.