Aquilegia aurea, a beautiful columbine, features golden-yellow flowers, often with spurs, blooming in late spring to early summer. It thrives in partial shade and well-dr
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist soil but good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures and can suffer in extreme heat.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Benefits from annual compost; light feeding in spring if needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Aquilegia aurea prefers consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in late summer and autumn as the plant begins to slow down its growth.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if unwanted. Cut back the entire plant to the ground in late autumn after it has finished flowering and the foliage begins to yellow.
This tidies up the garden and prepares the plant for winter.
Aquilegia aurea can be propagated by seeds sown in autumn or early spring. Seeds benefit from a period of cold stratification. Division of established clumps is best done in early spring or autumn.
Space divisions adequately to allow for good air circulation and growth.
Established plants generally do not require frequent repotting. If container-grown, repot in spring to a slightly larger container, using a well-draining potting mix. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Mature plants may be better left undisturbed in the ground.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Columbine (Aquilegia aurea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
| Species | Aquilegia aurea |
Similar in genus Aquilegia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
