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Description
Aquilegia Eximia, also known as the Serpentine Columbine, is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the western United States and Mexico and is commonly found in rocky slopes, canyons, and forests. The plant is known for its unique and colorful blooms, which appear in shades of pink, red, and purple. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and spreads up to 1 foot wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
The Aquilegia Eximia plant has a unique and attractive appearance. It has blue-green, lobed leaves that are about 3-6 inches long, and grow in a basal rosette. The stems are slender and erect, and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and have a distinctive shape, with long spurs that extend from the back of the petals. The flowers come in shades of pink, red, purple, and white. The plant produces seeds in late summer or early fall, which can be collected and used for propagation.
Care Guide
Aquilegia Eximia is an easy-to-maintain plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a year in early spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, and can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aquilegia Eximia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf miners, aphids, and powdery mildew. Leaf miners can be controlled by removing affected leaves, while aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and soap. Powdery mildew can be controlled by improving air circulation around the plant and using a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Aquilegia Eximia is native to the western United States and Mexico, and is commonly found in rocky slopes, canyons, and forests. It prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic, and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aquilegia Eximia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Can Aquilegia Eximia be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seeds, which can be collected in late summer or early fall.
Q: Does Aquilegia Eximia require pruning?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning, but deadheading the flowers can encourage more blooms.
Q: Is Aquilegia Eximia toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants to avoid ingestion.
Related Plants
- Aquilegia canadensis
- Aquilegia chrysantha
- Aquilegia vulgaris
- Aquilegia caerulea
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/columbine/columbine-plant-care.htm
- https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/perennials/aquilegia-eximia
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=AQEX
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c970
