Columbine is a tall plant of woodland rides, fens and damp places, and is also a favourite cottage-garden plant, various forms often escaping into the countryside. Its nodding, bonnet-shaped, purple flowers appear in May and June and will self-seed in a garden to provide a colourful and wild border, great for nectar-loving bees.
Human activity, including the drainage of land for agriculture, the loss of ponds through development and the removal of wet woods, has resulted in the disappearance of many of the UK's wetlands. The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with planners, developers and farmers to ensure our wetlands are protected. You can help too: plant Columbine and other natives in borders to provide early nectar for insects. In partnership with the RHS, The Wildlife Trusts' Wild About Gardens initiative can help you plan your wildlife garden.
