Shockley's Columbine
aquilegia shockleyi
Also known as: ["Shockley Columbine","Rocky Mountain Columbine"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the western United States, known for its distinctive spurred flowers and lobed leaves.
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 shockleyi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, woodland edges, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or spent parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun preferred); adjust to avoid scorching in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense afternoon sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; adjust shade as needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
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 (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates cold but prefers not to exceed 80°F (27°C) for extended periods.
Protect from frost; avoid heat stress with shade; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; use a balanced formula; apply before active growth begins.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of clumps can also be done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds on the surface.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings.
- Or divide clumps carefully, replanting immediately.
Best Time: Early spring for seeds; early spring or fall for division.
Environment
Cool temperatures (60–65°F or 15–18°C); indirect light; consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid division if roots are damaged.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–3 weeks for germination; division: immediate establishment if done correctly.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, trowel, sharp knife (for division).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall or early spring; divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers with clean cuts; cut back foliage to ground level if needed.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage in late fall or early spring to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; cut back dead foliage; clean tools between cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot if repotting; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with added compost.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor plants; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; 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 minimize evaporation and fungal issues; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter dormancy; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacting soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if soil freezes.
Solution: Mulch to insulate roots; protect from frost; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf burn, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to avoid stimulating late-season growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Aquilegia shockleyi, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. The alkaloids in the plant can cause mild to moderate symptoms, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Aquilegia shockleyi can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological effects due to the presence of alkaloids. The plant's toxicity is generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAquilegia shockleyi contains toxic compounds, primarily alkaloids, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms 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 shockleyi 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.
Q: What are the common problems with Aquilegia shockleyi?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and rotting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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