Columbine
Columbine plants are wild flowers that are part
of the buttercup family.
Other Names: Aquilegia, American Columbine,
Canada Columbine, Eastern Columbine, Meetinghouses,
Rock Bells, Honeysuckle, Rock Lily, Cluckies,
Jack-in-Trousers, Wild Honeysuckle, Granny's Bonnets,
Dancing Fairies,
Scientific Classification:
Kingdom: Plantae
Class:: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ranunculales
Family: Ranunculaceae
Genus: Aquilegia
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Columbine |
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Descriptions: Columbines have uniquely
shaped foliage that can resemble clover leaves,
and columbine flowers resemble hooked spurs.
Size: Dwarf varieties of columbine grow
4 to 6 inches tall, while other species can reach
3 feet in height.
Symbolism: In times past, Columbine symbolized
foolishness, based on the flower's resemblance
to a jester's cap and bells. Later with the emergence
of Christianity the flower had contradictory meanings,
the the Virgin Mary representing innocense and
the holy spirit. Yet, it was considered inappropriate
to give a young woman a bouquet of columbine,
because of its sexual connotations.
Grow Details: Columbines are known to
be woodland plants, so planting in habitats that
are similar to a woodland will make growing columbines
easier.
Grow Details
Soil Type: Rich
Well-Drained Soil
Soil PH: PH 5.5-7
Water: Moist
Light: Light Shade, Part Shade
to Full Sun
Grow Zone: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
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Characteristics
Height: Columbine can grow from
4 inches to 3 feet.
Flower Colors: red, yellow, white,
blue, pink, purple, bi-colored
Propagation: Propagate via seeds.
Division/Transplants:
Blooming Period: May to June
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Type: Biennial or Perennial
Herbal Remedy Properties: The root and
the seeds of the Columbine are known to be highly
toxic. Despite the toxicity Native Americans used
very small amounts of the columbine root as an
effective treatment for ulcers. However, the medical
use of columbine plants is better avoided due
to its high toxicity; columbine poisonings may
be fatal.
Native Area: The native area of columbine
is remarkably diverse. Most species of columbine
are native to the Northern Hemisphere.
Other: The flowers of various species
of columbine were consumed in moderation by Native
Americans as a condiment with other fresh greens,
and are reported to be very sweet, and safe if
consumed in small quantities.
Columbines are Colorado's State Flower.
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