Golden Columbine

(Aquilegia chrysantha)

Golden Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Aquilegia chrysantha image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Aquilegia chrysantha, commonly known as Golden Columbine, is a semi-deciduous perennial herb native to the Southwestern United States, particularly in canyons, woodlands, and along streams. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). Golden Columbine is characterized by its delicate, fern-like foliage and distinctive, nodding yellow flowers that appear in late spring to early summer. The flowers are particularly showy with five pointed yellow sepals and five yellow petals with elongated spurs that project backward. The center of the flower is adorned with numerous yellow stamens, creating a striking contrast. The plant’s natural habitat supports a variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds and bees.

Golden Columbine is valued for its vibrant yellow flowers and ability to attract wildlife. It is often used in woodland gardens, borders, and naturalized areas. While it prefers full sun to part shade, it is adaptable to a range of light conditions. It requires medium water and thrives in well-drained soils. The cultivar ‘Yellow Queen’ is notable for its exceptional beauty and has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Gardeners should be aware that while generally low-maintenance, Aquilegia chrysantha can be susceptible to leaf miners and powdery mildew. It can also self-seed prolifically, which may be considered undesirable in some settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to canyons, woodlands, and along streams in the Southwestern USA

Other Names

Common Names: Canary Columbine, Southwestern Yellow Columbine, Yellow Columbine, Guldakleja

Scientific Names: , Aquilegia chrysantha, Aquilegia chrysantha var. chrysantha, Aquilegia caerulea var. chrysantha, Aquilegia chrysantha f. pleiocalcarata, Aquilegia coerulea var. chrysantha, Aquilegia flava, Aquilegia formosa var. chrysantha, Aquilegia leptoceras var. chrysantha, Aquilegia leptoceras var. flava

GBIF Accepted Name: Aquilegia chrysantha A.Gray