Columbine

[Milner_Ecology]

Seeing the Moonkshood thread earlier made think of Columbine Aquilegia vulgaris, for some reason I always get the two species confused in my head, probably because we had both in the garden at home!

I seem remember finding one in Grass Wood SSSI outside Grassington in N. Yorks a few years ago whilst looking for other things. It was growing on limestone scree under elm pretty far from any paths. I was wondering if anyone could tell me if it is likely that it was a native one? I'm considering having a go at finding it again next year with a decent camera if it is likely to be a native population.

Cheers in advance,

Ben

[steve47]

Yes I have seen it there many years ago, 80's I think, it is most likely the native one. I came across a small wood miles from any buildings where I found 40 or 50 columbine. If you live near Tadcaster N Yorks try Hazelwood off the A64.

[Dorts]

The native distribution of Aquilegia vulgaris is now totally obscured by the ever increasing amount of plants of garden origin.
Native plants are generally found in old, damp shady meadows, woodland paths and woodland edges. on chalk and limestone.

Yes, I have seen plants in Grasswood which I'm sure were native. Look for the short hooked spurs and blue flowers.

Grasswood has some fantastic plants and has long been a must-visit for plant hunters. I saw my first Yorshire Milkwort, Angular Solomon'-seal, Mountain Currant, Green Spleenwort and Limestone Polypody, there many years ago, along with other very special plants.
How lucky Milner to have such a great site almost on your doorstep!
Dorts.

[alindsay]

Can you tell if this is a native one? Foud in a chalky hillside meadow in S Beds. Sorry, no leaves.



Thanks