We're offering you a Garden Ready Aquilegia Nora Barlow for £9.99, saving you up to 23% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £12.99 (correct as of 02.06.2026).

Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow' – Botanical Beauty for Every Garden

Bring a touch of classic charm to your outdoor space with Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow', a heritage perennial from the Ranunculaceae family. Known for its intricate, double-layered blooms in shades of pink and green, this variety stands out with its unique pompom shape and nodding flower heads.

• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer (May–June)
• Mature Height: Up to 75cm (30in)
• Spread: 30–45cm (12–18in)
• Position: Prefers partial shade but tolerates full sun in moist, well-drained soil
• Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK (USDA zones 3–8)

Why Choose 'Nora Barlow'?

• Distinctive Heritage Variety: Developed in the early 20th century, 'Nora Barlow' is prized for its unusual, spurless flowers that differ from standard columbines.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant requires little intervention and will self-seed gently, creating drifts of colour over time.
• Biodiversity Booster: The nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting a healthy garden ecosystem.

Growing Guide & Care Tips

• Sowing & Planting: Plant garden-ready plugs outdoors from March to May or September to October. Space plants 30cm apart in fertile, moist but well-drained soil.
• Light Requirements: Thrives in dappled shade; tolerates morning sun if soil remains cool and moist.
• Watering: Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first season after planting.
• Pruning: Deadhead faded blooms to prolong flowering and control self-seeding. Cut back foliage after flowering if desired.
• Pests/Diseases: Generally trouble-free; may occasionally attract leaf miners or powdery mildew.

Design Ideas & Companion Plants

• Cottage Garden Borders: Pair with foxgloves, hardy geraniums, or digitalis for a layered, traditional look.
• Woodland Edges: Combine with ferns and hostas for naturalistic planting schemes.
• Pots & Containers: Suitable for large containers on shaded patios or balconies.

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow'?
  The best times are early spring (March–May) or early autumn (September–October) when soil is workable.
• How fast does Aquilegia 'Nora Barlow' grow?
  This perennial establishes quickly and typically flowers in its first full season after planting.
• What type of soil does it prefer?
  'Nora Barlow' thrives in moist but well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.