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Description
Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird, also known as Columbine, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant from the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, yellow, and white. The plant grows up to 60cm in height and has a spread of 30cm. It blooms in spring and early summer, producing showy, nodding flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
The Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird has a unique appearance with its blue and white flowers. The flowers have five petals that are fused at the base, forming a distinctive tube-like shape. The petals have a spiky structure on the tips, and the center of the flower has contrasting yellow stamens. The leaves are fern-like and have a bluish-green color. The plant has a compact habit and can be grown in containers or borders.
Care Guide
The Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird is easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of soils. Here are some tips for taking care of this beautiful plant:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Leaf miners: These pests tunnel through the leaves, causing unsightly damage. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Crown rot: This disease causes the plant to wilt and die. Remove infected plants and avoid planting in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
The Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent addition to any garden.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird?
A: The plant can be propagated by seed or division. Sow the seeds in spring or fall, or divide the plant in early spring or late summer.
Q: How often should I water Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can I grow Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird in containers?
A: Yes, the plant has a compact habit and can be grown in containers or borders.
Q: Does Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its showy, nodding flowers.
Related Plants
- Aquilegia vulgaris
- Aquilegia canadensis
- Aquilegia chrysantha
- Aquilegia flabellata
References
- “Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c390.
- “Aquilegia.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/search-results?form-mode=true&query=Aquilegia.
- “Aquilegia Songbird Bluebird.” North Carolina State University, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aquilegia-songbird-bluebird/.
