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Aquilegia coerulea

Aquilegia coerulea
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Aquilegia coerulea (Aquilegia coerulea) — botanical photograph
Pl. 5F49 — Aquilegia coerulea
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Overview

Aquilegia coerulea, commonly known as Colorado blue columbine, is a perennial forb native to the western United States, including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and prefers well-draining soil types such as sandy or medium-textured soils. Known for its ornamental value, it also offers edible benefits, particularly its flowers which can be used in culinary applications. One distinctive feature of this plant is its striking blue or purple petals, often accompanied by delicate white sepals that form a graceful bell shape.

Quick answers

What is Aquilegia coerulea?

Aquilegia coerulea, commonly known as Colorado blue columbine, is a perennial forb native to the western United States, including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Aquilegia coerulea thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil. It is hardy in zones 3-7 and grows to about 0.6 meters. This perennial forbs or herbs require light to medium soil and are native to regions including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. For propagation, divide the roots or sow seeds directly in the garden. Harvest the edible flowers for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Aquilegia coerulea for the first time

8steps

Start with Aquilegia coerulea for a low-maintenance, beginner-friendly perennial.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A packet of Aquilegia coerulea seeds or small plants, a trowel, and mulch.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; prepare containers with light, medium soil.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the garden or start small plants indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist; mulch around the base for added moisture retention.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide partial sun and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to maintain plant health; cut back after flowering if needed.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough partial shade.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of Aquilegia coerulea can be eaten raw or used in salads for a decorative and mild flavor. They are also suitable for making teas. Skip the petals when preparing to ensure safety.
Other uses:Pest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 8 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Aquilegia coerulea (Aquilegia coerulea) — botanical photograph
Aquilegia coerulea (Aquilegia coerulea)
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Explore further

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