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Description
Aquilegia Pubescens, commonly known as the Hairy Columbine, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, forests, and rocky slopes. The plant grows up to 1-2 feet tall and spreads up to 1-2 feet wide. It has blue-green leaves and produces attractive flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are typically blue or lavender in color and have a unique shape, with five petals protruding backward like spurs. The plant is popular among gardeners for its ornamental value and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
Aquilegia Pubescens has blue-green leaves that are typically divided into three lobes. The leaves are hairy and grow up to 8 inches long. The plant produces attractive flowers that are 1-2 inches wide and have five petals that protrude backward like spurs. The flowers are typically blue or lavender in color, but can also be white, pink, or yellow. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and spread up to 1-2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Aquilegia Pubescens is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Do not overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Aquilegia Pubescens is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aquilegia Pubescens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew, leaf miners, and spider mites. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide, while leaf miners and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Aquilegia Pubescens is native to the western United States and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, forests, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate Aquilegia Pubescens?
A: The plant can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should be sown in the fall, while division should be done in the spring.
Q: Can Aquilegia Pubescens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Aquilegia Pubescens?
A: The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
Q: How do I prune Aquilegia Pubescens?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to promote new growth and extend the blooming period.
Related Plants
– Aquilegia Canadensis- Aquilegia Chrysantha- Aquilegia Formosa- Aquilegia Longissima- Aquilegia Vulgaris
References
– Aquilegia pubescens. Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287059&isprofile=0&basic=aquilegia.- Hairy Columbine. USDA Forest Service. (n.d.). https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/aquilegia_pubescens.shtml.
