Aquilegia shockleyi
Aquilegia shockleyifam. Papaveraceae
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Pl. 8C6A — Aquilegia shockleyi
Aquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyiAquilegia shockleyi
IOverview
Overview
Aquilegia shockleyi, commonly known as Shockley's columbine, is a perennial plant native to California and Nevada. This member of the Ranunculaceae family thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. It grows up to 0.8 meters tall and is hardy in USDA zones 6-9. Known for its edible flowers, which can be used in salads or as a garnish, Shockley's columbine also adds ornamental value with its delicate, bell-shaped blooms. Its adaptability makes it a suitable choice for gardeners looking to add both beauty and edibility to their landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Aquilegia shockleyi?
Aquilegia shockleyi, commonly known as Shockley's columbine, is a perennial plant native to California and Nevada. This member of the Ranunculaceae family thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Aquilegia shockleyi thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. This perennial is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 0.8 meters tall. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist. Propagation can be done through division or seed sowing. The edible parts include the flowers, which are safe for consumption.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Aquilegia shockleyi 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 plant or seeds, a pot if starting indoors, well-draining soil, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, sandy to medium soil. Ensure containers have good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants outdoors once they are established or sow seeds directly in the garden after danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun to full sun, keep soil consistently moist, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms. Remove any yellowing leaves to maintain plant health.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of Aquilegia shockleyi are edible and can be used in various ways. They are often picked fresh and added to salads for a decorative touch and mild flavor. Occasionally, they may also be steeped to make a light, fragrant tea.
Other uses:Pest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:Nevada, California
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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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 8c6a57e4-3df2-47d7-8608-03ce56ed1a4d
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