Columbine Aquilegia canadensis
ABOUT
Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as the Eastern Red Columbine, is a perennial flowering plant that boasts a distinct and attractive appearance. This charming plant is characterized by its delicate, bell-shaped flowers with a unique structure that includes five upward-facing petals intermingled with an equal number of downward-hanging, tubular spurs. The flowers exhibit a captivating color combination, with the petals often displaying a soft, pale pink to white hue, contrasted by the vibrant red to orange spurs, which adds an eye-catching splash of color to garden spaces. The foliage of the Eastern Red Columbine is equally attractive, featuring compound leaves that are green and lobed, with a soft, almost fern-like texture that provides a lush background for the whimsical blooms. The leaves are typically divided into round-lobed leaflets, contributing to the plant's airy and delicate look. The stems of the plant are slender and straight, providing a sturdy framework that allows the flowers to bob gently in the breeze, giving the plant a dynamic and lively presence. Overall, the Eastern Red Columbine is a striking and elegant plant that captures the attention of gardeners and pollinators alike, with its intricate flowers and soft, inviting foliage creating an enchanting display. It is a favorite among hummingbirds and butterflies, which are drawn to its nectar-rich spurs, making it an excellent choice for those looking to cultivate a wildlife-friendly garden.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Canadian Columbine, Canada Columbine, Granny's Bonnet, Eastern Red Columbine, Wild Columbine, Eastern Columbine, Meetinghouses, Red Columbine.
Common names
Aquilegia australis, Aquilegia canadensis var. australis, Aquilegia canadensis var. coccinea, Aquilegia coccinea, Aquilegia phoenicantha.
ToxicityTo humans
Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) has a low level of toxicity to humans. It contains cyanogenic glycoside, which can release cyanide if the plant is damaged or chewed. However, poisoning from columbine is rare and usually not severe. Ingesting parts of the plant may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is advised to avoid eating any part of the plant to prevent these potential symptoms.
To pets
Columbine is also considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets. Like in humans, it contains compounds that can release cyanide when the plant material is chewed or damaged. If ingested by pets, such as dogs or cats, it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, which could include symptoms such as salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. While the risk of serious poisoning is low, it's still advisable to prevent pets from consuming any part of the columbine plant to avoid these uncomfortable reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-3 feet (30-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is known to attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, which are vital for pollination processes in gardens and wild ecosystems.
- Aesthetic value: Columbine adds visual interest to gardens with its distinct, nodding flowers in shades of red and yellow and attractive, lobed foliage.
- Low maintenance: Once established, Columbine is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Tolerates a range of conditions: It can grow in a variety of soil types, from light sandy soils to heavy clays, and can also withstand partial shade to full sun exposures.
- Naturalizes easily: Columbine can spread and naturalize in suitable conditions, filling out garden spaces and creating a more lush environment.
- Erosion control: Its root system helps to stabilize soil, preventing erosion on slopes and in areas with loose soil.
- Seasonal interest: Columbine has a lengthy blooming period from spring to early summer, providing long-lasting color in the landscape.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is often used in floral arrangements and bouquets to provide a delicate and whimsical touch due to its unique spurred flowers.
- In gardens, Columbine acts as an early-season nectar source for hummingbirds and can be strategically planted to attract these birds for bird-watching enthusiasts.
- The seeds of Columbine are sometimes used as a natural stuffing material for small sachets or pillows, relying on its texture rather than any scent.
- Dye extracted from the flowers of Columbine can be utilized in traditional textile dyeing processes, imparting a light yellow hue.
- The unique shape of Columbine flowers inspires artists and designers, influencing patterns in fabric design, wallpaper, and decorative arts.
- The plant has a role in education, being used in biology classes to demonstrate the structure of flowers and pollination strategies, especially its adaptation to hummingbird pollination.
- Columbine leaves can be fermented and used as an ingredient in making specialty wines, providing an unusual flavor note.
- In some specialized culinary instances, the flowers of Columbine may be crystallized with sugar and used as decorative edible elements on desserts.
- Eco-friendly landscape architects use Columbine in green roof and vertical garden designs to increase biodiversity and provide natural beauty.
- Crafters might employ the dried seed pods of Columbine in potpourri mixes or as a component in homemade natural jewelry.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Columbine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Columbine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength: The Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as the Columbine, has a delicate appearance but is able to thrive in hard areas, symbolizing the strength to overcome difficulties.
- Resilience: The plant's capability to grow in rocky and high-altitude areas makes it a symbol of resilience and endurance.
- Foolishness: In Victorian flower language, Columbine was associated with foolishness, possibly because its flower shape resembles a jester's cap.
- Deserted Love: Derived again from the language of flowers, it may signify forsaken or deserted love due to its nodding flower heads.
- Freedom: With its ability to freely seed and grow in various conditions, the Columbine often symbolizes the spirit of freedom.
WaterColumbine should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During the growing season, water approximately one inch per week, either through rainfall or manual watering. In periods of extreme heat or drought, increase watering slightly. Reduce the frequency of watering in the fall to prepare the plants for winter. Over-watering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
LightColumbine thrives best in partial shade to full sun. It prefers a spot that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon rays, especially in hotter climates. In cooler climates, Columbine can tolerate more sun. Proper sunlight encourages healthy growth and optimal flowering.
TemperatureColumbine prefers temperate climates and does well in a wide range of temperatures from about 35°F to 70°F. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -30°F. Ideal growing conditions are achieved within the milder range where night temperatures are cool, promoting vigorous growth and prolonged bloom periods.
PruningPruning Columbine mainly involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage additional blooming and to prevent self-seeding if desired. After blooming, cut the flower stems back to the base of the plant. In late fall or early spring, prune away dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilColumbine thrives in moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of about 5.5-7.0. A mixture of loam, peat, and perlite or vermiculite makes an excellent soil base for columbines, ensuring adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingColumbines, or Eastern Red Columbine, are typically not repotted often as they prefer to be left undisturbed. They are usually repotted only when necessary, about every 3-4 years, or when they outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingColumbine prefers moderate humidity but is quite adaptable to different humidity levels and does not require any special humidity considerations as long as it receives sufficient water in its soil.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Eastern Red Columbine, provide bright indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant Eastern Red Columbine in partial shade and moist, rich soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleColumbine (Aquilegia canadensis) typically starts its life cycle from seed, which, when conditions are favorable—generally in spring or autumn—will germinate and develop into a seedling. The seedling grows into a rosette of leaves at ground level during its first year, establishing a robust root system. In subsequent years, it will produce upright stems and mature leaves, and as a perennial, it enters a vegetative stage where it stores energy for flowering. Columbine flowers in late spring to early summer, showcasing its distinctive bell-shaped, spurred flowers that attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees. After pollination, seeds are produced in follicles, and when mature, they are dispersed nearby to begin the cycle anew. The plant may go dormant in winter, surviving as a root system, and will resume growth as temperatures warm.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as Eastern Red Columbine, is by seed. Propagation time by seed generally begins in the spring after the last frost has passed, taking advantage of the moist soil conditions and temperate weather for optimal germination. The seeds can be directly sown into a well-draining garden bed or started indoors in seed trays with potting soil. If starting indoors, it is recommended to stratify the seeds for about a month at 40 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 4.4 degrees Celsius) before sowing to mimic the natural winter chilling period and encourage germination. Once sown, seeds should germinate within 3 to 4 weeks, and the seedlings can later be transplanted outdoors after they have developed a strong root system and there is no longer a risk of frost.
