Angiosperms (Flowering Plants) • Earth.com

Common columbine

(Aquilegia vulgaris)

galery
en

Description

Aquilegia vulgaris, also known as the common columbine or European columbine, is a perennial plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia and has been cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes worldwide. Description Aquilegia vulgaris typically grows to a height of 60-90 cm, with a spread of 30-45 cm. The plant produces delicate, bell-shaped flowers that are 2-3 cm in diameter and come in a range of colors, including blue, purple, pink, red, yellow, and white. The flowers have five petals that are spurred at the base, giving them a distinctive shape. The leaves of Aquilegia vulgaris are lobed and divided, with a delicate, fern-like appearance. They are typically green but can also have a bluish tint. Cultivation Aquilegia vulgaris is a hardy plant that thrives in a range of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade but can also tolerate full sun and a variety of soil types. It is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. The plant can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should be sown in the spring, either indoors or directly into the garden. Division should be carried out in the autumn or spring, and the resulting plant should be watered regularly until it becomes established. Uses Aquilegia vulgaris is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its delicate, colorful flowers and fern-like foliage make it a popular choice for borders, rock gardens, and woodland gardens. The plant also has a long history of medicinal use. In traditional herbal medicine, it was used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders, respiratory infections, and skin conditions. It was also used as a sedative and a pain reliever. In modern herbal medicine, Aquilegia vulgaris is still used for some of these purposes, although scientific evidence of its effectiveness is limited. Folklore Aquilegia vulgaris has a rich folklore and symbolism associated with it. In medieval times, it was believed to have magical properties and was used in love potions and spells. In Christian symbolism, the plant was associated with the Holy Spirit, and its distinctive shape was said to represent the dove of peace. It was also associated with the Virgin Mary and was sometimes called "Mary's Shoes" because of the shape of its flowers. In Native American folklore, the plant was used in rituals and was believed to have healing properties. Conclusion Aquilegia vulgaris is a beautiful and versatile plant that has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental and medicinal properties. Its delicate, colorful flowers and fern-like foliage make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes, while its rich folklore and symbolism add to its charm and intrigue. Whether grown for its beauty or its medicinal properties, Aquilegia vulgaris is a plant that is sure to delight and inspire.

Taxonomic tree:

Domain:
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum:
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order:Ranunculales
Family:Ranunculaceae
Genus:Aquilegia
News coming your way
The biggest news about our planet delivered to you each day