Aquilegia canadensis (Eastern Red Columbine) Unity Grown

Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as eastern red columbine, is a native perennial wildflower renowned for its beautiful, eye-catching red and yellow flowers. In early spring, eastern columbine produces its tell-tale uniquely shaped flowers; these unique flowers give these plants their scientific name (aquila meaning eagle in Latin and referring to the flower's 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, their attractive lobed foliage make it an important host plant for several kinds of caterpillar.

Growing to 2-3' tall and 12-18" wide, columbine can flourish in various soil types as long as moisture and drainage is adequate, but they actually prefer less fertile soils. The species is naturally found in woodland edge environments, and performs well in partial shade to full sun 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 reseeding is also kept in check by hungry birds who seek out columbine seeds.

Our Aquilegia canadensis plugs are grown from seed here at Unity Church Hill Nursery.