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Description
Aquilegia Sibirica, also known as Siberian Columbine, is a beautiful perennial plant that is native to Siberia, Russia. It is a member of the Ranunculaceae family and is known for its delicate, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has fern-like leaves that are a bluish-green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
Aquilegia Sibirica produces delicate, bell-shaped flowers that are typically a deep shade of blue or purple, although they can also be pink or white. The flowers have a distinctive spur at the back, which is how the plant got its common name of Columbine, as the spurred shape is reminiscent of a dove. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has fern-like leaves that are a bluish-green color.
Care Guide
Aquilegia Sibirica requires moderate care to thrive and produce beautiful flowers. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in warmer climates, it may need some shade to prevent the leaves from scorching.- Hardiness Zones: Aquilegia Sibirica is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aquilegia Sibirica is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect this plant:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, which can lead to yellowing and defoliation. To control powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and use a fungicide if necessary.- Leaf miners: These small insects can cause unsightly tunnels in the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use insecticidal soap to control leaf miners.
Habitat
Aquilegia Sibirica is native to Siberia, Russia, where it grows in meadows and along stream banks. It prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aquilegia Sibirica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Aquilegia Sibirica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize Aquilegia Sibirica?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Aquilegia Sibirica?
A: Aquilegia Sibirica can be propagated by seed or by division. Divide the plant in the fall or early spring, or collect seeds from the plant after the flowers have faded.
Q: Can Aquilegia Sibirica tolerate full sun?
A: Aquilegia Sibirica prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in warmer climates, it may need some shade to prevent the leaves from scorching.
Related Plants
– Aquilegia vulgaris (Common Columbine)- Aquilegia canadensis (Canadian Columbine)- Aquilegia caerulea (Rocky Mountain Columbine)- Aquilegia chrysantha (Golden Columbine)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Aquilegia Sibirica. Retrieved September 15, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c550- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Aquilegia Sibirica. Retrieved September 15, 2021, from https://extension.umn.edu/flowers/aquilegia-sibirica
