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Description
Aquilegia Vulgaris, commonly known as Columbine or Granny’s Bonnet, is a herbaceous perennial plant species that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Europe and has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The plant has a unique and attractive shape, with long spurs extending from the back of the flower. Columbine flowers bloom in the late spring and early summer and come in a range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, yellow, and white. The plant grows to a height of 60-90 cm and has a spread of 30-45 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
Aquilegia Vulgaris has a distinct and attractive appearance. The plant has a bushy, clump-forming habit and features delicate, fern-like foliage that is bluish-green in color. The flowers of Columbine have a unique shape, with five petals that curve backwards to form long spurs that extend from the back of the flower. The spurs are usually longer than the petals and come in a range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, yellow, and white. The flowers bloom in the late spring and early summer and are produced in loose clusters atop tall stems that rise above the foliage.
Care Guide
Aquilegia Vulgaris is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your Columbine plants healthy and thriving:
Water: Columbine plants prefer moist soil but do not like to be waterlogged. Water the plants deeply once a week, and adjust the frequency of watering based on the weather conditions and the moisture level of the soil.
Fertilization: Columbine plants do not require heavy fertilization. You can fertilize the plant lightly with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and then again in the fall.
Soil: Columbine plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0.
Sunlight: Columbine plants prefer partial shade to full sun. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and reduce the number of flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Columbine plants are hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Columbine plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that can affect the plant:
Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing the foliage to wilt and turn yellow. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
Mildew: Powdery mildew can affect the foliage of the plant, causing it to turn white and powdery. You can prevent mildew by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Leaf miners: These insects can tunnel through the leaves of the plant, causing them to curl and turn brown. You can control leaf miners by removing affected leaves and spraying the plant with neem oil.
Habitat
Aquilegia Vulgaris is native to Europe and can be found in a range of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky areas. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Columbine plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Columbine plants can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Columbine plants?
A: You can fertilize your Columbine plants lightly in the spring and again in the fall. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the label.
Q: How long do Columbine flowers last?
A: Columbine flowers can last for several weeks. Deadhead the flowers as they fade to encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
Q: Can Columbine plants be divided?
A: Yes, Columbine plants can be divided in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Aquilegia Vulgaris:
- Aquilegia canadensis
- Aquilegia x hybrida
- Aquilegia chrysantha
- Aquilegia flabellata
References
- “Aquilegia vulgaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277878&isprofile=0&basic=Aquilegia%20vulgaris>.
- “Aquilegia vulgaris.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 14 June 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/415/Aquilegia-vulgaris/Details>.
- “Aquilegia vulgaris.” The Spruce. Accessed 14 June 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/columbine-aquilegia-4125272>.
