American Columbo
Frasera caroliniensis
- Native to:
- Canada, United States, Virgin Islands
iNaturalist: © jackinthepulpit34 (iNaturalist #213750180)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Gentianaceae
- Genus:
- Frasera
- Species:
- Frasera caroliniensis
- USDA Symbol:
- FRCA2
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 200 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Part Shade,Shade
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun,jul
- Bloom Colors:
- greenish-white, blue, purple
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees, butterflies
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- prefers open woodlands and prairies
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
- Germination Time:
- 30–60 days
- Notes:
- Seeds require cold stratification for 60-90 days; germination occurs in spring.
Pre-treatment: Seeds are cold stratified and require warm and cold stratification for germination
Establishment: F. caroliniensis is found within temperate deciduous forests of North America.
Source: npn.rngr.net
Where to Buy
Nationwide Seller
- Prairie Moon Nursery (nursery and seeds)