Also known as Blue Columbine · Small-Flowered Columbine · Smallflower Columbine
Small-flower Columbine (Aquilegia brevistyla) is a charming native wildflower with delicate blue-purple flowers, ideal for woodland gardens and naturalistic settings.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade. Can tolerate full sun in cooler climates with adequate moisture.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures; avoid extreme heat.
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. After flowering, cut back the foliage to about 10 cm above the ground to maintain a tidy appearance and allow the plant to direct energy to root development for the next season.
Aquilegia brevistyla can be propagated by seeds, which benefit from a period of cold stratification. Sow seeds in autumn or early spring.
Division of established clumps in early spring or autumn is also an effective method for asexual reproduction.
Container-grown plants may need repotting every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Repot in early spring or autumn, using a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the crown of the plant is at soil level.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Small-Flower Columbine (Aquilegia brevistyla)
Where Small-Flower Columbine (Aquilegia brevistyla) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
| Species | Aquilegia brevistyla |
Similar in genus Aquilegia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
