Columbine Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Ruby Port' (d)
ABOUT
The 'Ruby Port' columbine has a captivating appearance that draws attention in any garden setting. It flaunts intricate double flowers that are a deep, rich ruby-red, adding a touch of vintage elegance to the landscape. The flowers have a nodding habit and possess a nearly globular form due to the layers of tightly packed petals, which resemble the ruffs of Elizabethan collars. The foliage complements the dramatic blossoms, comprising a basal clump of green leaves that are lobed and delicate in texture, almost fern-like, creating an attractive mound beneath the flowers. The charismatic blooms perch atop slender, upright stems that gracefully sway with the breeze, giving the plant a poised yet whimsical demeanor. The leaves and stems may have a subtle blue-green hue, further enhancing the deep red of the blossoms. This columbine variety, with its old-world charm and stunningly unique flowers, is a true gem for a cottage garden or a romantic flower bed.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
European Columbine, Granny's Bonnet, Ruby Port Columbine
Common names
Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Ruby Port' (d).
ToxicityTo humans
Columbine, specifically Aquilegia vulgaris 'Ruby Port', contains several toxic compounds, including cyanogenic glycosides. While poisoning cases are rare due to its bitter taste, which naturally deters consumption, ingestion of any parts of the plant can lead to symptoms. Potential symptoms of columbine poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion could result in respiratory difficulty, heart problems, and seizures due to the cyanide released from the cyanogenic glycosides. It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if ingestion occurs.
To pets
Columbine, specifically Aquilegia vulgaris 'Ruby Port', is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, as it contains cyanogenic glycosides. If ingested, pets may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion of this plant can result in more serious symptoms like respiratory distress, lethargy, seizures, or even coma. It is considered an uncommon occurrence for pets to consume this plant due to its bitter taste. If you suspect that your pet has ingested columbine, contact a veterinarian promptly for assistance.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Burgundy
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Ruby Port', commonly known as Columbine, has striking dark ruby red flowers that provide a rich visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: Columbine is known to attract butterflies and hummingbirds, contributing to pollination in the garden.
- Shade Tolerance: Columbine can grow in partially shaded areas, offering a flowering option for less sunny parts of a garden.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, Columbine has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for gardens with lower water availability.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of gardening styles, including cottage gardens, wildflower meadows, and woodland plantings.
- Easy Propagation: Columbine seeds can readily self-sow, providing an easy means of propagation and naturalization in suitable climates.
- Long Bloom Period: It has a lengthy flowering season, typically from mid-spring to early summer, ensuring prolonged aesthetic value.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Columbine's dried seed heads can be used in floral arrangements or as decorations, adding an architectural element to the design due to their distinctive shape.
- The petals of Columbine can be used to make natural dyes, providing shades of soft yellows and greens, depending on the mordant used.
- Pressed Columbine flowers can be a delicate addition to handmade paper, bookmarks, and greeting cards for a touch of natural beauty.
- The foliage of Columbine can be an interesting green addition to salads, due to their mild, somewhat sweet taste, though they should be consumed in moderation.
- Columbine can be a teaching tool in gardens and schools to educate on plant life cycles, pollination, and the importance of native flora.
- As a tribute to its unique shape, Columbine blooms can inspire art and photography, making them subjects for drawing, painting, and nature photography.
- Columbine seeds are attractive to birds, particularly finches, and can be left on the plant through autumn to provide food for wildlife.
- The inherently whimsical form of the Columbine can be integrated into fairy gardens and fantasy-themed landscapes.
- Harvesting Columbine seeds can be a way to practice seed-saving techniques, preserving the plant's genetics for future planting.
- In cultural events, the Columbine flower can be incorporated into maypole and other traditional spring celebration decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiColumbine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityColumbine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Foolishness: In traditional flower symbolism, Columbine (the common name for Aquilegia) is associated with foolishness, possibly due to the jester-like appearance of its blooms.
- Deserted Love: The flower has links to the theme of deserted love, possibly reflecting the small, nodding nature of its blossoms.
- Sorrows of Love: The connection to love's sorrows can also be attributed to its use in art and literature, where it is often used symbolically to represent jilted or unrequited affection.
WaterThe Columbine 'Ruby Port' needs to be watered regularly but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering. During the active growing season in spring and summer, this typically means watering about once per week with approximately 1 gallon of water per plant, depending on climate conditions. Reduce watering in the fall and further in winter to match the plant's reduced growth and evapotranspiration rates. Ensure thorough watering that reaches the roots without leaving the plant in standing water.
LightColumbine 'Ruby Port' flourishes best in partial shade, particularly enjoying morning light and afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat of the day. A spot that offers dappled sunlight is ideal as it simulates the natural lighting conditions of woodland edges where these plants commonly grow. Avoid full sun locations which can scorch the leaves and stress the plant.
TemperatureColumbine 'Ruby Port' thrives in a temperate climate and can handle temperatures ranging from around 35 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is cold hardy and can endure short periods of colder temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing should be avoided.
PruningPrune Columbine 'Ruby Port' after flowering by cutting back the spent flower stems to encourage a second, though lighter, bloom period. Pruning in late fall or early winter is also beneficial; remove dead leaves and stems to tidy up the plant and prevent overwintering pests and diseases. Prune the plants every year to maintain their shape and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilColumbine prefers a well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite would create an ideal environment for 'Ruby Port'.
RepottingColumbines, like 'Ruby Port', typically do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Only repot if the plant outgrows its current container or if soil needs replenishment.
Humidity & MistingColumbine 'Ruby Port' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require any specific humidity levels, making it convenient for typical outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Choose partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleColumbine 'Ruby Port' begins its life as a seed, requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy before germination can occur in the spring. Once the seedling emerges, it develops into a rosette of leaves during the first year, focusing energy on establishing a strong root system. In its second year, it sends up its distinct flowering stems, showcasing deep ruby-red, nodding flowers with unique spur structures that attract pollinators such as bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into follicles that contain many small black seeds, which are dispersed by wind or gravity. The parent plant may die after seeding, completing its life cycle, but often Columbine 'Ruby Port' can behave as a short-lived perennial, surviving several seasons with proper care. In subsequent years, any remaining plants will continue the cycle, producing new foliage and flowers each spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Columbine 'Ruby Port' can be propagated by seed, and this is the most popular method. Seed propagation is best done in spring or early summer. Sow the seeds on the surface of a well-drained seed starting mix, as they require light for germination. Do not cover them with soil but gently press them into the medium. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and cover the container with a plastic lid or wrap to maintain humidity. Columbine seeds can take 30 to 90 days to germinate at a temperature around 70°F (approximately 21°C). Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and later moved to their final position in the garden.
