About Aquilegia saximontana Rydb.
Habitat and Range
Aquilegia saximontana Rydb., also called A. saximontana, grows in sub-alpine and alpine areas of the Rocky Mountains, at elevations between 3,300 and 4,000 m (10,800–13,100 ft). This columbine species is endemic, meaning it is native only to the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, United States.
Flowering Traits
It blooms in July and August, producing lavender and white flowers.
Mature Size
Mature plants reach a total height of 5–25 cm (2.0–9.8 in).
Taxonomic Confusion Risk
A. saximontana should not be mistaken for Aquilegia coerulea var. coerulea, which shares overlapping range with A. saximontana and may also produce blue and white flowers.
Distinguishing Features
The two can be distinguished by the length and shape of the spur-shaped backs of their flowers: A. saximontana has hooked spurs that measure 3–9 mm (0.12–0.35 in) long, while A. coerulea has straight spurs that measure 34–48 mm (1.3–1.9 in) long.
