Dwarf Fan Columbine Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as the dwarf columbine has a compact and charming appearance, characterized by its distinctive flowers and foliage. The flowers, which are the most striking feature, are typically found in shades of blue, purple, or sometimes white. They have a unique structure with a set of five backward-facing spurs that are quite dramatic and give the bloom a star-like form from above. The petals are rounded and slightly bunched together at the base, while the center of the flower contains yellow stamens that add a contrast to the cooler tones of the petals. The foliage of the dwarf columbine is equally attractive, comprised of leaves that present themselves in a blue-green color. These leaves are divided into rounded lobes that give them a somewhat fan-shaped appearance. They are arranged in a basal rosette, meaning they grow in a circular pattern close to the ground, and provide a lovely backdrop to the delicate looking flowers that rise above them on slender, straight stems. Overall, the dwarf columbine has a neat and tidy form that exhibits a gentle, yet whimsical charm, making it a popular choice for rock gardens and as an ornamental highlight in various garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Dwarf Fan Columbine, Small Japanese Columbine, Dwarf Blue Columbine.
Common names
Aquilegia flabellata f. nana, Aquilegia flabellata var. alpina, Aquilegia nana, Aquilegia pumila.
ToxicityTo humans
Fan columbine (Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila) can be toxic if ingested. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide in the body when chewed or digested. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing, lethargy, seizures, and an increased risk of cardiac arrest.
To pets
Fan columbine (Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila) is also toxic to pets if ingested. The plant's cyanogenic glycosides can cause similar symptoms in pets as they do in humans, which might include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in extreme cases, respiratory difficulties, lethargy, seizures, and an increased risk of cardiac failure.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
12 inches (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Dwarf columbine offers delicate, nodding blooms that add an elegant touch to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: It is known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are vital for plant pollination and the health of the ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, dwarf columbine requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Adapted to survive with less water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-conservative gardens.
- Cold Hardy: It can withstand colder temperatures, making it appropriate for gardens in cooler climates.
- Shade Tolerant: Can grow in partial shade, providing flexibility in garden design and plant placement.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cottage Garden Accents: Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila, also known as dwarf fan-shaped columbine, can be used to create charming accents in cottage gardens, where its soft textures and subtle hues complement a rustic aesthetic.
- Pressed Flower Art: The blossoms of this plant are suitable for pressed flower crafts, where they can be arranged into decorative patterns for framed art or bookmarks.
- Education and Botanical Studies: Dwarf fan-shaped columbine is often used in educational settings for botanical studies due to its distinct morphology, which makes it an example of interesting plant reproductive strategies.
- Fairy Gardens: Due to its small size, Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila can be planted in fairy gardens where it contributes to the miniature landscape and fantasy setting.
- Photography: The unique form and color of the flowers make them a popular subject for photographers keen on capturing the beauty of native and wild plant species.
- Alpine & Rock Gardens: This plant, with its tolerance for rocky soils and its compact growth habit, is well-suited for alpine and rock gardens where it can survive in the crevices between stones.
- Bonsai Companion Planting: Dwarf fan-shaped columbine can be used as an accompanying ground cover plant in bonsai displays, adding to the aesthetics with its floral display.
- Border Edging: The plant's dwarf nature makes it an excellent choice for border edging in small garden beds, where it provides a neat, low-growing edge.
- Garden Club Sales: Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila can be propagated by division and seeds and is often popular at garden club sales and exchanges due to its unique appearance.
- Wildlife Gardening: This columbine variety can attract pollinators like bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, making it valuable for those interested in wildlife gardening who wish to support local ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Fan Columbine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Fan Columbine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Determination: Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila, commonly known as Dwarf Columbine, often grows in rocky alpine regions, symbolizing the plant's determination to thrive in hard, challenging environments.
- Foolishness: The name 'columbine' is derived from the Latin word 'columba' meaning 'dove', but it also has connotations with 'columbinus', relating to fools. In the language of flowers, columbines have been associated with foolishness.
- Resilience: Dwarf Columbine's ability to survive and flourish even in poor soil conditions signifies resilience and the ability to prosper despite adversity.
- Strength of spirit: The plant's delicate appearance belies its robust nature, symbolizing inner strength and spiritual fortitude.
WaterFan Columbine prefers consistent moisture, so it's important to water it regularly but not heavily. During spring and summer, the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically about one inch of water per week. Use a watering can or a hose set to a gentle sprinkle to avoid dislodging the soil or damaging the delicate foliage and flowers. Reduce watering in the fall and water sparingly in the winter, only enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Depending on weather conditions, watering might be needed once every two weeks during dormant periods.
LightFan Columbine thrives in partial shade to full sun. The best spot for this plant would be a location that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it in deep shade or in an area that receives intense, direct afternoon sunlight, as this might stress the plant and affect its blooming.
TemperatureFan Columbine is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but performs best in a temperate climate. The ideal temperature for Fan Columbine falls between 60°F and 75°F. This plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about -20°F and can handle maximum temperatures up to 85°F. Ensure it is insulated with mulch during colder months to protect it from freezing.
PruningPruning helps maintain the shape of Fan Columbine and encourages healthy growth. After blooming, cut back the stems to their base to promote a tidy appearance and to potentially encourage a second bloom. Pruning is also necessary to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to prevent disease. The best time for pruning is in the late summer or early fall, following the blooming period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDwarf Columbine thrives in consistently moist, well-draining soil with a mix of loam, compost, and some perlite or sand. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH of about 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingDwarf Columbine does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Columbine prefers moderate humidity but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the drier air found in typical household environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright indirect light, keep soil moist, and provide good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, enrich soil with compost, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleAquilegia flabellata var. pumila, commonly known as the dwarf columbine, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after a period of cold dormancy, germinates in the spring. The germinated seed develops into a seedling, which grows into a rosette of leaves at the soil surface. As the plant matures, it produces its characteristic stems and deeply lobed leaves, followed by the distinctive, nodding blue or purple flowers, each with a spurred petal, in late spring to early summer. After pollination by insects, such as bees or hummingbirds, the flowers develop into follicles containing numerous small, black seeds. The seeds are dispersed by wind or gravity, and if conditions are suitable, they will remain dormant until the following spring to germinate and begin a new cycle. Dwarf columbine is a perennial plant, so above-ground structures may die back in the winter, but the plant can survive underground with its root structure and emerge again for several seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Aquilegia flabellata var. pumila, commonly known as dwarf fan-shaped columbine, is typically propagated through seeds. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by sowing seeds directly into the garden or starting them indoors. To start seeds indoors, one would sow them in trays or pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix approximately 6-8 weeks before the last expected spring frost. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil as they require light for germination and kept moist. They usually germinate within 3-4 weeks at 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit (around 18-21 degrees Celsius). After the seedlings develop true leaves and there is no risk of frost, they can be transplanted into the garden, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart.
