Desert columbine (Aquilegia desertorum) is a small perennial with delicate, bell-shaped red and yellow flowers, native to arid regions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained, sandy to rocky soil
50% intensity
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Prefers warm to hot temperatures during the growing season; hardy to frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in late fall and winter to encourage dormancy.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in containers. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. After the flowering season has ended, prune back the plant by about one-third to maintain a tidy appearance and promote healthy regrowth in the following season.
Aquilegia desertorum can be propagated by seed sown in autumn or early spring. Germination can be erratic; stratification may improve success.
Division of established clumps in early spring is another effective method for asexual propagation.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years in spring before new growth begins. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Choose a pot slightly larger than the previous one to accommodate root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Desert Columbine (Aquilegia desertorum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
| Species | Aquilegia desertorum |
Similar in genus Aquilegia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
