Aquilegia karelinii
Aquilegia kareliniifam. Papaveraceae
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Pl. C768 — Aquilegia karelinii
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IOverview
Overview
Aquilegia karelinii, commonly known as the Caucasian Columbine, is a perennial plant native to Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Xinjiang. This member of the Ranunculaceae family thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. Standing at about 0.8 meters tall, it is known for its edible flowers, which can be used in culinary applications. Its distinctive features include delicate, spurred flowers that range in color from white to pink, often with a darker center, adding ornamental value to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Aquilegia karelinii?
Aquilegia karelinii, commonly known as the Caucasian Columbine, is a perennial plant native to Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Xinjiang. This member of the Ranunculaceae family thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Aquilegia karelinii thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil of medium texture. It grows up to 0.8 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the plant receives adequate moisture and light conditions, as it can tolerate both sunny and partially shaded areas. Propagate via division or seed. The edible parts include its flowers, making this a versatile addition to your garden for both aesthetic and culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Aquilegia karelinii for the first time
7steps
Start with Skip by ensuring you have the right conditions and care, making it a simple addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot or spot in the garden, seeds or young plants, well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, sandy soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors once the ground is warm, or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist and provide partial shade if direct sunlight is intense. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health. Remove any yellowing leaves.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of Aquilegia karelinii are edible and can be used in various preparations. They are often picked fresh and added to salads for a decorative touch and mild flavor. Occasionally, they may also be dried and used as a decorative element in dishes or teas.
Other uses:InkPest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaKazakhstanUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Tadzhikistan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Papaveraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Papaveraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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