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Eastern Columbine
Aquilegia canadensis
Plant This!
Information by Lauren Sanford
(Image: PAEnflowered)
Abstract
The native flower, Eastern Columbine, adds delicate beauty to Pennsylvania's landscape while also supporting important ecological relationships. As Eastern Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) blooms in early spring, the nodding flowers attract pollinators, contributing to the health and diversity of the native plant community.
Eastern red columbine blooming (L), in bud (LC), flower (RC) and closeup (R) (Image: Wisconsin Horticulture).
Description
Eastern Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is a native herbaceous perennial native to the United States and Southern Canada. The flowers feature 5 pod-shaped follicles with long beaks that contain numerous small black seeds. The perennials can reach heights from 6 inches to 4 feet, with the flowers growing 1-2 inches. The foliage presents a yellow color during mid to late autumn, and during bloom in late spring to summer, the flowers develop a red and orange coloration with yellow stamens dangling below. The light green to blue-green three-lobed leaves (glaucous) grow from the base and along the flower stems. Each of the compound leaf's three leaflets is divided into three rounded lobes, which can be further subdivided into threes to look like large, rounded teeth.
Eastern Columbine in late fall shows red and orange foliage. (Image: Wisconsin Horticulture)
Natural History
Eastern Columbine is a common flower of northeastern North America. Columbine originated in both Europe and Asia, with the Asian species migrating across the Bering land bridge during the glacial period 10,000 to 40,000 years ago. This perennial has had many uses in the past, especially in Native American communities. The Meskawki, Ponca, Pawnee, and Omaha tribes saw columbine seeds as a love charm and to perfume linens. The Cherokee used columbine as a heart medicine, and the Iroquois made a wash from it to ease poison ivy.
Why You Should Plant This
Aside from its delicate beauty, Eastern Columbine can be seen as a valuable native wildflower for the home garden. This plant is not just a decorative plant, but actively supports wildlife. The nectar-filled flowers are an essential source of food for hummingbirds and early pollinators, especially in the spring! Once the blooming comes to an end, the seeds can feed small birds, and the foliage helps sustain beneficial insects. This can add to a more balanced and functional ecosystem.
Plant Eastern Columbine in your garden and enjoy the charm while giving wildlife a place to thrive all season long!
Further Reading
University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension. (n.d.). Eastern red columbine (Aquilegia canadensis). Eastern red columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Little, J. (n.d.). Columbine. Duke Gardens Garden Talk page
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