Aquilegia canadensis (Columbine)

One of the earliest and most reliable native nectar sources in the spring landscape, red columbine pairs strong hummingbird and pollinator value with genuine deer resistance and the adaptability to thrive from full sun to full shade.

Species Overview

Aquilegia canadensis, or Red Columbine, is a native perennial wildflower admired for its delicate, nodding red and yellow flowers that bloom in spring. Its unique spurred petals make it a favorite among hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Growing up to 2 feet tall, it thrives in woodlands, rocky slopes, and shaded gardens. Red Columbine prefers partial shade to full sun and moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to drier conditions.

Application

• Woodland restoration and shade garden plantings
• Rocky slope and outcrop plantings
• Pollinator habitat plantings - among the earliest spring nectar sources for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies
• Naturalized garden and border plantings, self-seeds readily
• Deer-pressured woodland sites

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Full Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to drier conditions
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 1-2 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Red, Yellow; May-June
• Wetland Indicator Status: FAC (Facultative) - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region
• Native Range: Eastern North America, from Saskatchewan to Quebec, south to Arkansas and Georgia
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Shade Tolerance: Tolerant
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A rocky woodland species adapted to well-drained soil; not tolerant of standing water.
• Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports bees, supports butterflies, supports hummingbirds
• Juglone Tolerance: Tolerant