Aquilegia karelinii - (Baker.)O.&B.Fedtsch.

(Baker.)O.&B.Fedtsch.

Ranunculaceae Edible: Flowers Potential hazards — see below

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Rob C. H. M. Oudejans

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Moscow State University (copyright is managed by Dr. Alexey P. Seregin)

Description

Aquilegia karelinii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 6in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

Flowers - raw. Rich in nectar, they are sweet and delightful, they make a very attractive addition to mixed salads and can also be used as a thirst-quenching munch in the garden.

Medicinal Uses

Parasiticide. None known

Known Hazards

Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, it belongs to a family that contains a number of mildly toxic species. It is therefore wise to exercise some caution. The flowers are probably perfectly safe to eat.

Distribution

C. Asia.

Where It Grows

TEMPERATE ASIA: Kazakhstan (southeast), Kyrgyzstan TROPICAL ASIA: India (Uttar Pradesh)

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in ordinary garden soil, preferring a moist but not wet soil and a sunny position. Intolerant of heavy clay. Most species are short-lived, dying out after 2 - 3 years, though they usually produce seed prolifically. However, they are very apt to hybridize with other members of the genus and so it becomes difficult to keep a species true to type if more than one is grown in the garden. Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes.

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. The seed can be slow to germinate. Stored seed can be sown in late winter in a cold frame. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Division in spring.