Mancos Columbine

(Aquilegia micrantha)

Mancos Columbine (Aquilegia micrantha)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Aquilegia micrantha, commonly known as Mancos Columbine or Rock Columbine, is a deciduous perennial herb that is native to the mountainous regions of the Western United States, including the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado Plateau. It is often found in alpine and subalpine zones, particularly in rocky slopes, meadows, and along stream banks. This species typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and a width of 1.5-2 feet (0.5-0.6 meters). The Mancos Columbine has distinctive yellow flowers that are quite showy, blooming in the late spring and early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.

The plant is valued for its ornamental flowers and its ability to adapt to a range of garden settings. It is often used in rock gardens, woodland gardens, and as a border plant. While it prefers medium draining loam or sandy soils, it is relatively drought-tolerant once established and can thrive with medium amounts of water. It does best in full sun to part shade and benefits from mulching to keep the roots cool. Mancos Columbine is relatively low-maintenance, but it can be susceptible to leaf miners and powdery mildew. It is also known for its ability to self-seed under optimal conditions, which can be both a benefit and a concern if not managed properly.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

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

Natural Habitat

Alpine and subalpine zones, particularly in rocky slopes, meadows, and along stream banks in the mountainous regions of the Western United States, including the Rocky Mountains and the Colorado Plateau

Other Names

Common Names: Columbine, Rock Columbine

Scientific Names: , Aquilegia micrantha, Aquilegia buergeriana var. ecalcarata, Aquilegia eastwoodiae, Aquilegia ecalcarata, Aquilegia ecalcarata subsp. micrantha, Aquilegia ecalcarata var. micrantha, Aquilegia ecalcarata var. micrantha, Aquilegia lithophila, Aquilegia mancosana

GBIF Accepted Name: