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Description
Aquilegia, commonly known as Columbine, is a genus of about 60-70 species of perennial flowering plants native to meadows, woodlands, and rocky areas of the Northern Hemisphere. The plant is known for its distinctive bell-shaped flowers with spurs that come in a variety of colors such as blue, pink, yellow, purple, and white. The flowers bloom in spring and summer and are a favorite among hummingbirds and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
Aquilegia plants can grow up to 2 feet in height and spread to about 1-2 feet wide. The leaves are compound and fern-like, with lobed leaflets that are bluish-green in color. The flowers are about 1-2 inches in diameter and have five petals that are fused at the base to form a distinctive spur. The flowers can be single or double and come in a variety of colors such as blue, pink, yellow, purple, and white. The plant also produces a seedpod that splits open when ripe, revealing small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Aquilegia plants are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for your Aquilegia plant:- Water: Aquilegia plants prefer moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: Fertilize your Aquilegia plant with a balanced fertilizer once in early spring and again in early summer.- Soil: Aquilegia plants prefer a rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.- Sunlight: Aquilegia plants prefer partial shade to full sun, depending on the variety. In hot climates, provide shade during the hottest part of the day.- Hardiness Zones: Aquilegia plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aquilegia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and aphids. To prevent these problems, make sure your plant is growing in well-drained soil and has good air circulation. If you notice any signs of disease or pests, treat them promptly with fungicides or insecticides.
Habitat
Aquilegia plants are native to meadows, woodlands, and rocky areas of the Northern Hemisphere. They can be found in North America, Europe, and Asia. In the wild, they grow in a variety of habitats, from high mountain meadows to lowland forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aquilegia plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Aquilegia plants can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and allows for good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Aquilegia plant?
A: Fertilize your Aquilegia plant once in early spring and again in early summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Aquilegia plants?
A: Aquilegia plants can be propagated by seed or by division. To propagate by seed, collect the seeds from the plant when the seedpods split open. To propagate by division, dig up the plant in the fall and separate the root ball into smaller sections.
Q: Are Aquilegia plants toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the Aquilegia plant are toxic if ingested, so keep them away from children and pets.
Related Plants
– Delphinium- Lupinus- Papaver- Salvia- Veronica
References
– “Aquilegia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b552.- “Aquilegia.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18431/aquilegia/details.- “Aquilegia.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-aquilegia-plants-1402123.
