Alpine Columbine Aquilegia alpina
ABOUT
The plant known as Alpine Columbine is a captivating perennial that exudes a wild charm and has a distinct appearance characterized by its unique and elegant flowers. These blooms are quite striking, often showcasing a rich, deep blue color that draws the eye. They possess a distinctive shape, with five backward-facing spurs and an inner ring of stamens that protrude outwards, presenting a contrasting palette of hues that can include whites and yellows. This floral architecture not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose in the plant's pollination. The foliage of the Alpine Columbine is delicate and quite attractive, consisting of compound leaves that are typically divided into leaflets. These leaflets are further segmented into rounded lobes, which give them a fine, lace-like appearance. The leaves are typically a bright, fresh green that provides a soft background for the dramatic flowers. Overall, Alpine Columbine is a picturesque plant that brings a touch of wild beauty to any garden setting, captivating admirers with its distinctive flowers and graceful foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Alpine Columbine, Alpenglöckchen, Alpen-Akelei
Common names
Aquilegia alpina var. albiflora, Aquilegia alpina subsp. alpina, Aquilegia vulgaris var. alpina.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Aquilegia alpina, commonly known as Alpine Columbine, contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release hydrogen cyanide when the plant parts are damaged or ingested. If a human consumes parts of this plant, symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, respiratory difficulties, and in severe cases, seizures or cardiac arrest. It is essential to avoid ingesting any part of Alpine Columbine due to its potential toxicity.
To pets
Alpine Columbine is also toxic to pets due to the same cyanogenic glycosides present in the plant tissues. If pets ingest parts of this plant, they may exhibit symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, respiratory distress, and in severe instances, convulsions or even coma. Pet owners should prevent animals from having access to or ingesting any part of Alpine Columbine to avoid the risk of poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-3 feet (30-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Aquilegia alpina, also known as Alpine Columbine, is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to a garden, thus supporting local ecosystems.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its distinctive bell-shaped blue flowers, it adds beauty and color to alpine and rock gardens, borders, and woodland settings.
- Low Maintenance: Alpine Columbine typically requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Drought Tolerance: It is generally drought tolerant once established, adapting well to varying conditions and requiring less water than many other garden plants.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant can serve as a habitat and as a food source for wildlife, particularly for hummingbirds that are drawn to its nectar-rich blooms.
- Cold Hardy: Being an alpine plant, it is accustomed to cold temperatures, making it suitable for gardens in cooler climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aquilegia alpina, commonly known as Alpine Columbine, can be used as a natural fabric dye, producing a range of colors depending on the mordant used during the dyeing process.
- The flowers of Alpine Columbine can be crystallized and used as decorative, edible accents on cakes and pastries.
- Aquilegia alpina can serve as a muse for artists and photographers, particularly in its natural alpine habitat where it adds a splash of color against rocky landscapes.
- Beekeepers may plant Alpine Columbine in gardens to attract more bees, as the flowers are an excellent source of nectar during the blooming season.
- The seeds of Alpine Columbine are sometimes used in seed art for creating intricate patterns and designs due to their uniform size and shape.
- Alpine Columbine is planted in butterfly gardens to serve as a host plant, providing caterpillars with a food source.
- Alpine Columbine can be used in companion planting to enhance the growth of other plants by attracting beneficial insects that ward off pests.
- The plant is often used in studies and education on plant adaptation and pollination mechanics because of its unique flower structure.
- Gardeners use the Alpine Columbine in rock gardens for its ability to thrive in well-drained soil and complement the diverse textures and forms of alpine plants.
- Due to its striking appearance, Alpine Columbine is sometimes used in floral arrangements, especially in country-themed or wildflower bouquets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Alpine Columbine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Alpine Columbine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength: The name Aquilegia is derived from the Latin word "aquila," which means "eagle." The plant's spurs resemble an eagle's talons, symbolizing strength and bravery.
- Resolve: Alpine Columbine often thrives in high-altitude, rocky terrains, representing resilience and the ability to endure and overcome challenges.
- Loneliness: The isolated habitats in the mountains can reflect solitude, signifying the plant as a symbol of loneliness or self-reliance.
- Foolishness: In folklore, the plant has been used to symbolize foolishness, possibly due to its bell-like shape, reminiscent of jesters' hats.
- Renewal: As a perennial that blooms every spring, the Alpine Columbine represents new beginnings and renewal.
WaterColumbine (Aquilegia alpina) prefers consistently moist soil, so it's important to water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this will mean watering the plant approximately once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. For outdoor plants, a deep watering that adds about 1 to 1.5 inches of water to the soil is beneficial. Utilizing a watering can or a hose with a gentle spray attachment will help avoid dislodging the soil around the plant. Make sure to avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. During the particularly hot or dry spells, you may need to increase the frequency of watering to maintain moisture levels.
LightColumbine thrives in conditions where it can receive partial shade to full sun. It does particularly well in dappled sunlight, such as under the canopy of taller plants or trees. The ideal spot would provide protection from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates, while ensuring it receives enough morning sunlight to support its growth and flowering.
TemperatureColumbine is comfortable in a wide range of temperatures and can survive winter temperatures down to about -30°F. The ideal growing temperatures for columbine are between 50°F and 70°F. It can tolerate summer temperatures up to approximately 85°F, but prolonged exposure to higher temperatures combined with humidity may stress the plant.
PruningColumbine should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom in the same season. Deadheading, or cutting off the faded flowers, can be done throughout the blooming period. At the end of the blooming season, usually by late summer or early fall, cut back the foliage to the ground to keep the plant tidy and help prevent fungal diseases. Pruning is also an opportunity to remove any damaged or diseased leaves which can occur throughout the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Alpine Columbine prefers soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mixture consisting of equal parts garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal. The pH should range from slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingAlpine Columbine generally doesn't require frequent repotting. It can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it has outgrown its current pot. Early spring is the best time to repot this plant.
Humidity & MistingAlpine Columbine thrives in moderate humidity conditions. It does well in average room humidity levels, typically between 40% to 60%. Avoid placing it in overly dry environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; enrich soil with organic matter.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of an Alpine Columbine (Aquilegia alpina) begins with seed germination, which is influenced by cold stratification, a process that often occurs naturally in the winter. After germination, the plant enters a vegetative stage, growing roots, stems, and leaves, taking advantage of favorable conditions such as ample sunlight and water. As it matures, Alpine Columbine undergoes the budding stage, where flower buds develop, usually in the second year after germination. The flowering stage is next, showcasing the plant’s distinctive, nodding blue flowers that attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds. Following pollination, the plant enters the fruiting stage, producing follicles that contain seeds, which when mature, are dispersed by wind or gravity. The life cycle can then begin anew if the seeds find a suitable environment for germination, while the parent plant may die back in winter and enter dormancy, regrowing in the spring to repeat the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Propogation: Columbine (Aquilegia alpina), known for its beautiful, intricate flowers, is often propagated through seed sowing, which is the most popular method. The best time for sowing seeds is in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. Seeds should be sown on the surface of a well-draining, moist soil mix and then lightly covered with soil. The seeds need light to germinate, so they should not be buried too deeply. To maintain a moist environment, one can cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a greenhouse. Seedlings typically emerge in 30-90 days at 70°F (21°C), but they can be slower to germinate if the temperatures are cooler. Once the seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden, ensuring they are spaced 1-2 feet apart to accommodate mature growth.
