Aquilegia canadensis (Eastern Red Columbine) Unity Grown

Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as eastern red columbine, is a native perennial wildflower known for its beautiful and eye-catching red and yellow flowers. In early spring, eastern columbine produces its tell-tale upward pointing spurred-petal flowers; the unique shape gives these plants their scientific name (aquila meaning eagle in Latin and referring to the somewhat talon-shaped spurs) and its bright, multi-color blooms attract hummingbirds and pollinating insects. Aside from pollinator value, Aquilegia canadensis is also a great choice for cut flower arrangements, due to its long-lasting blooms, and plant tissues make it an important host plant for several kinds of caterpillar.

Growing to up to three feet tall, columbine can flourish in various soil types as long as moisture and drainage is adequate, but they actually prefer soils with less organic content. The species is found naturally occurring in woodland environments, and naturally prefers part-sun to full shade conditions. Aquilegia canadensis is resistant to deer and rabbit browsing, and will self-seed easily allowing columbine to form large colonies in the right growing conditions; populations can be kept in check by cutting back spent flowers, but seeds are also kept in check by being consumed by birds.