Green Columbine

(Aquilegia viridiflora)

Green Columbine (Aquilegia viridiflora)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 7" - 29"
High Temp. 72°F - 84°F
Low Temp. -27°F - 21°F

Summary

Aquilegia viridiflora, commonly known as green columbine or green-flowered columbine, is a herbaceous perennial native to alpine meadows and forest clearings in southern Siberia and China. It typically grows 6 to 20 inches tall with a maximum spread of about 12 inches. The plant is characterized by its nodding, bell-shaped flowers that are greenish-yellow, blooming in late spring to early summer. The foliage is delicate and fern-like, adding a soft texture to garden settings.

Green columbine is valued for its unique flower color and is often used in shaded rock gardens, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The plant requires well-drained soil and is relatively low maintenance once established. ’Chocolate Soldier’ is a popular cultivar with distinctive chocolate-brown flowers and a compact growth habit, reaching up to 12 inches in height. While generally pest-free, Aquilegia viridiflora can be susceptible to leaf miners and powdery mildew. It is also worth noting that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so care should be taken if planting in areas accessible to children or pets.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.6-3 feet
  • Width: 0.6-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Brown, Green
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

native to alpine meadows and forest clearings in southern Siberia and China

Other Names

Common Names: Alpine Columbine

Scientific Names: Aquilegia viridiflora, Aquilegia atropurpurea, Aquilegia atropurpurea var. brevistyla, Aquilegia atropurpurea var. dahurica, Aquilegia atropurpurea var. fischeriana, Aquilegia atropurpurea var. violacea, Aquilegia burjatica, Aquilegia canadensis, Aquilegia dahurica

GBIF Accepted Name: Aquilegia viridiflora