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Description
Aquilegia Coerulea Var. Ochroleuca, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain Columbine, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is native to the Rocky Mountains in North America, and it can grow up to 2 feet tall. The Rocky Mountain Columbine is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes due to its unique and attractive flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
The Rocky Mountain Columbine has unique and showy flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are white with yellow centers, and the petals have a delicate and intricate shape that resembles a bird in flight. The leaves of this plant are dark green and lobed, and they provide an attractive backdrop for the flowers. The Rocky Mountain Columbine can grow up to 2 feet tall, and it has a clumping habit.
Care Guide
The Rocky Mountain Columbine is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some basic attention. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The Rocky Mountain Columbine prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require heavy fertilization, but a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The Rocky Mountain Columbine prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The Rocky Mountain Columbine is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rocky Mountain Columbine is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can sometimes be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and provide good air circulation. If necessary, use a natural insecticide or fungicide to control pests and diseases.
Habitat
The Rocky Mountain Columbine is native to the Rocky Mountains in North America, where it grows in meadows, woodlands, and rocky slopes. This plant prefers cooler temperatures and high elevations, but it can also be grown in lower elevations with proper care.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Rocky Mountain Columbine be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Rocky Mountain Columbine can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Rocky Mountain Columbine?
A: It is recommended to fertilize the Rocky Mountain Columbine once a year with a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring.
Q: Can the Rocky Mountain Columbine be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Rocky Mountain Columbine can be propagated from stem cuttings in the spring or fall.
Q: Is the Rocky Mountain Columbine toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the Rocky Mountain Columbine is toxic to pets if ingested. It contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Related Plants
- Aquilegia canadensis – Canadian columbine
- Aquilegia vulgaris – European columbine
- Aquilegia flabellata – Fan columbine
- Aquilegia chrysantha – Golden columbine
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Aquilegia coerulea var. ochroleuca. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b662
- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Columbine. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/hortanswers/detailproblem.cfm?PathogenID=39
- Colorado State University Extension. (n.d.). Columbine. Retrieved from https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/columbine-7-408/
