Black Columbine
aquilegia atrata
Also known as: ["Black European Columbine","Dark Columbine"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the mountains of Central Europe, known for its distinctive dark-colored flowers with elongated spurs.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Aquilegia |
| Botanical Name: | Aquilegia atrata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade, or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers as they fade; cut back foliage in late summer or fall; divide every 3–4 years.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning except during division.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); protect from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; provide shade during peak heat; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; provide dappled shade in hot regions.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; prefers cooler summers.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of clumps can also be done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings.
- Divide clumps carefully.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
Best Time: Early spring for seeds; early spring or fall for division.
Environment
Cool temperatures (60–65°F or 15–18°C); indirect light; high humidity for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite for seeds; garden soil for division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid division if needed.
Timeline
Seeds may take 3–4 weeks to germinate; division plants establish within a growing season.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, trowel, pruners, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall for spring germination; divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node; cut back foliage to ground level after flowering; divide clumps with a sharp knife or spade.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage after flowering to tidy appearance; divide clumps every few years to prevent overcrowding.
Tools
Hand pruners, sharp knife, spade.
Checklist
Remove dead or damaged foliage; deadhead regularly; divide when overcrowded.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot container-grown plants every 2–3 years to refresh soil and prevent root binding.
Checklist
Check root health; trim if needed; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on humidity and rainfall.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacting soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop due to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch to insulate roots; protect from frost with row covers or move containers indoors; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or dormancy in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the toxic compounds in Aquilegia atrata, which can induce gastrointestinal and mild neurological symptoms. The alkaloids in the plant may cause discomfort but are rarely fatal unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Aquilegia atrata can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological disturbances due to the presence of isoquinoline alkaloids. The plant's effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAquilegia atrata contains toxic compounds, primarily isoquinoline alkaloids, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aquilegia atrata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Aquilegia atrata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How should I care for Aquilegia atrata?
A: Provide partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
