Colorado blue columbine (Aquilegia coerulea)

Colorado blue columbine

Also known as: Rocky mountain columbine

Colorado blue columbine (Aquilegia coerulea) is a plant species discovered on Pike's Peak in 1820. The colorado blue columbine is the state flower of Colorado. The species can grow in a pale blue color, which gives it its latin name, coerulea. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees are attracted to the colorado blue columbine.

Scientific classification

Species

Colorado blue columbine (Aquilegia coerulea)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

60 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

White, Blue, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, White, Blue

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Colorado blue columbine

Attributes of Colorado blue columbine

Growth Rate

Colorado blue columbine exhibits a moderate growth rate during spring and summer, exhibiting deliberate, controlled increases in height and leaf production. Its growth pattern suggests progressive expansion, likely balancing resource allocation for its spectacular blooms. Height augmentation is most prominent during late spring, culminating in summer with abundant flowering. Varied growth rates may exist in different seasons, yet the moderate growth speed endows colorado blue columbine with resilience and adaptability during its primary active growth phases.

Culture

Garden Use

The multicolor flowers of the colorado blue columbine make this the perfect ornamental in cottage and hummingbird gardens. It makes a great clump-forming ground cover or a showy upright border plant from spring to summer when it's in season. It draws in hummingbirds and butterflies with its nectar-filled blooms but resists deer and rabbits.

Symbolism

Wisdom, strength and happiness

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Colorado blue columbine, including the following common varieties :

Columbines 'BlueBird'Columbines 'Cardinal'Columbines 'Crimson Star'Columbines 'Dove'

Toxicity

Colorado blue columbine, related to mildly toxic species, may cause illness if ingested. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and heart palpitations. Found in western North America, colorado blue columbine grows in aspen groves, the Rocky Mountains, and near streams in open woodlands. Caution is advised around any part of the plant. Other Aquilegia species are mildly to moderately toxic.

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Care Guide for Colorado blue columbine

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Colorado blue columbine thrives in alpine and subalpine habitats, preferring well-drained soils with moderate water retention. While it tolerates brief dry spells, weekly watering during its active growing season is crucial for lush flowering, highlighting its need for consistent soil moisture.

Fertilize: For colorado blue columbine, use balanced nutrition fertilizers and high phosphorus formulas to promote bloom. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with half-strength solution, reducing frequency in fall. Apply evenly, avoiding foliage, and water thoroughly afterward. Start with weaker solutions to assess colorado blue columbine's response.

Pruning: Regular pruning of colorado blue columbine enhances growth and prevents overcrowding. Key practices include removing spent blooms and trimming foliage in late spring. Optimal pruning occurs from early to late spring, promoting vigor, reducing disease risks, and ensuring better air circulation and light penetration.

Propagation: Native to the Rocky Mountains, colorado blue columbine thrives through seed propagation. Stratify seeds by chilling to improve germination, then sow in well-draining soil with ample light. Keep soil consistently moist without waterlogging, and thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, promoting healthy growth and flowering.

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Images of Colorado blue columbine

Attributes of Colorado blue columbine

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Colorado blue columbine

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