Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aquilegia oxysepala, the Oriental columbine, is a perennial wildflower native to parts of Asia, admired for its delicate, spurred flowers and attractive foliage.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures; thrives in USDA zones 3-8.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset and in severe cases, convulsions. Skin contact may cause irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Oriental columbine regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in fall and winter. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding. After flowering, you can trim back the foliage to tidy the plant, or leave it for winter interest.
Remove any dead or diseased stems at any time.
Propagate Aquilegia oxysepala by seed sown in autumn or early spring, or by division of established clumps in early spring. Seeds may require a period of cold stratification for best germination.
Division helps maintain desirable characteristics.
Repot young plants as needed, typically every one to two years, when they become root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Established plants generally prefer to be left undisturbed once settled in their preferred location.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Oriental Columbine (Aquilegia oxysepala)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
| Species | Aquilegia oxysepala |
Similar in genus Aquilegia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
