Eastern Red Columbine

(Aquilegia canadensis)

Eastern Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as Eastern Red Columbine or Wild Columbine, is an herbaceous perennial native to woodland and rocky slopes in eastern North America, including areas from the Great Plains to the Atlantic coast, and from southern Canada to northern Florida. It typically grows 15–90 cm (6–35 in) tall and is recognized for its unique flowers, which are 1–2 in (2.5–5.1 cm) long with yellow petals, a red spur, and red sepals, blooming in late spring (usually in May and June). The nodding flowers are particularly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds due to the nectar at the round end of the spur. The plant’s foliage is also ornamental, with blue-green leaves that provide a delicate texture in garden settings.

Eastern Red Columbine is valued for its showy flowers and ability to attract wildlife. It is a popular choice for woodland gardens, borders, and naturalized areas. It is adaptable to a range of light conditions, from full sun to full shade, and prefers soils with good drainage. While it tolerates low water conditions, it thrives with medium moisture. This species is relatively easy to propagate from seed and is long-lived in the garden. However, it can be susceptible to leaf miners and powdery mildew. Gardeners should be aware that while it is not typically invasive, it can self-seed prolifically under ideal conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-4 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Red, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Woodland and rocky slopes in eastern North America, including areas from the Great Plains to the Atlantic coast, and from southern Canada to northern Florida

Other Names

Common Names: Canadian columbine, Canada columbine, wild columbine

Scientific Names: , Aquilegia canadensis, Aquilegia canadensis var. coccinea, Aquilegia canadensis var. latiuscula, Aquilegia canadensis var. australis, Aquilegia canadensis var. hybrida, Aquilegia coccinea, Aquilegia australis, Aquilegia latiuscula, Aquilegia canadensis var. canadensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Aquilegia canadensis L.