Sierra Columbine

(Aquarius floribundus)

Sierra Columbine (Aquarius floribundus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Aquarius floribundus, commonly known as the Sierra Columbine, is a perennial herb native to the mountainous regions of California, particularly the Sierra Nevada. It is typically found in moist, well-drained soils in open woodlands, meadows, and along streambanks. This columbine species grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). Its appearance is characterized by its delicate, nodding flowers with blue-violet sepals and creamy white petals, blooming from late spring to early summer. The flowers are quite showy and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Sierra Columbine is valued for its charming flowers and its ability to attract pollinators. It is used in wildflower gardens, as a border plant, or in naturalized areas. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Regular watering is necessary, especially in drier conditions, but the plant is relatively low-maintenance once established. It is not known for any significant disease problems, but it can be susceptible to leaf miners. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. Sierra Columbine is not typically invasive but can self-seed if conditions are favorable.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to mountainous regions of California, particularly the Sierra Nevada, in open woodlands, meadows, and along streambanks

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Aquarius floribundus, Alisma floribundum, Alisma pubescens var. claussenii, Echinodorus floribundus, Echinodorus grandiflorus subsp. aureus, Echinodorus grandiflorus var. aureus, Echinodorus grandiflorus var. claussenii, Echinodorus grandiflorus var. claussenii, Echinodorus grandiflorus var. floribundus

GBIF Accepted Name: