Aquilegia

Aquilegia columbine magpie cultivar 2

Doubled flower of Aquilegia x hybrida 001

Wild Columbine Michigan

Schwarzviolette Akelei (Aquilegia atrata) 02

Aquilegia alpina1JUSA

Aquilegia is a genus of perennial plants that are found in a variety of temperate climates around the world. Known commonly as columbines, these plants are part of the Ranunculaceae family, which also includes the likes of buttercups and anemones. Aquilegia species are well-regarded for their distinctive flowers, which have spurred petals and are often highly attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Description

Aquilegia plants vary greatly in height, flower form, and color, depending on the species and cultivar. They typically have a bushy habit, with slender, branching stems. Leaves are biternate or triternate, with a soft, green, and sometimes bluish hue. The flowers of Aquilegia are most notable for their unique shape; they have five sepals, five petals with elongated spurs, and numerous stamens and pistils. The flowers can be blue, purple, red, yellow, white, or pink, and some species feature bi-colored blooms.

Habitat and Distribution

Aquilegia species are native to a wide range of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and higher altitude regions in the Northern Hemisphere. They are particularly diverse in North America and Eurasia. These plants prefer well-drained soil and can be found in both full sun and partial shade environments.

Cultivation and Uses

Columbines are popular in gardens and landscapes for their ornamental value. They are relatively easy to grow from seed and can self-sow under optimal conditions, sometimes leading to naturalization in the garden. Aquilegia species are used in a variety of garden settings, including perennial borders, woodland gardens, and rock gardens. Due to their attractive flowers and ability to attract wildlife, they are also valuable in pollinator gardens.

Species and Hybrids

There are many species within the Aquilegia genus, including the European Aquilegia vulgaris and the North American Aquilegia canadensis. Hybridization, both in the wild and in cultivation, has led to a wide variety of cultivars with diverse flower colors and forms. Some popular hybrids include Aquilegia 'McKana Giants', a group known for its large, brightly colored flowers, and Aquilegia 'Swan', known for its elegant, long-spurred blooms.

Conservation

While many Aquilegia species are common and not considered at risk, habitat destruction and over-collection of wild plants have led to declines in some species. Conservation efforts are in place for certain species, focusing on habitat preservation and the regulation of plant collection.

Cultural Significance

In addition to their horticultural appeal, columbines have various symbolic meanings in different cultures. They have been associated with wisdom, strength, and courage. The flower is also a symbol for the state of Colorado in the United States.