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Description
Aquilegia Fragrans, commonly known as the Fragrant Columbine, is a stunning perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the western regions of North America, including California, Oregon, and Washington. This plant is known for its sweet fragrance, which attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It has been used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans to treat a variety of ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
Aquilegia Fragrans has delicate, fern-like leaves that are bluish-green in color. The flowers are bell-shaped, with five petals that range in color from pink to lavender. The center of the flower is yellow, and it has long, slender spurs that extend from the back of the petals. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and one foot wide.
Care Guide
Aquilegia Fragrans is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant thrives in rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.- Sunlight: Aquilegia Fragrans prefers partial shade to full sun. However, in hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aquilegia Fragrans is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. These can be treated with fungicides or by removing infected leaves. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Aquilegia Fragrans is native to western North America, where it grows in meadows, woodlands, and rocky areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. It is a popular garden plant due to its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aquilegia Fragrans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system, and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Aquilegia Fragrans?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Aquilegia Fragrans?
A: This plant can be propagated by seed or by division. Seeds can be sown in the fall or spring, while division should be done in the spring or fall.
Q: How long do the flowers of Aquilegia Fragrans last?
A: The flowers typically bloom in late spring to early summer and last for several weeks.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Aquilegia Fragrans:- Aquilegia Caerulea (Rocky Mountain Columbine)- Aquilegia Formosa (Western Columbine)- Aquilegia Canadensis (Eastern Red Columbine)
References
– “Aquilegia fragrans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b618– “Aquilegia fragrans.” Plant Finder. Accessed 12 August 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/aquilegia-fragrans– “Aquilegia fragrans.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 12 August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/157402/Aquilegia-fragrans/Details
