Pyrenean Columbine
aquilegia pyrenaica
Also known as: ["Pyrenean Columbine","Rock Columbine"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Pyrenees, known for its distinctive spurred flowers and fern-like foliage.
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 pyrenaica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, woodland edges, or shaded borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged foliage; lightly prune throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sun or bright indirect light); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide dappled shade in hot climates; protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); prefers cooler nights; tolerates mild frosts.
Protect from extreme temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool nights; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing during dormancy; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation; seeds are often preferred for species diversity.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or collect seeds.
- Prepare medium.
- Apply rooting hormone (if using).
- Plant and maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not in peak bloom.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F or 18–21°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or seed-starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for stem cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Seeds may take 3–6 weeks to germinate; stem cuttings root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back after flowering to promote compact growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid pooling; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and early summer; reduce frequency in late summer and fall; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure good air circulation; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; flowers may fade quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid late-season feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild to moderate toxicity from Aquilegia pyrenaica, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract and causing mild neurological symptoms. The alkaloids in the plant can induce discomfort but are rarely fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Aquilegia pyrenaica 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 pyrenaica 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 pyrenaica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How should I care for Aquilegia pyrenaica?
A: Provide partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering to keep the plant healthy.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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