Also known as American Columbine · Canada Columbine · Canadian Columbine
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aquilegia canadensis, the Red Columbine, is a beautiful native wildflower featuring delicate red and yellow spurred flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, moist, humus-rich
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Thrives in cooler to moderate temperatures.
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains cyanogenic glycosides and protoanemonin, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogged soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Established plants are somewhat drought-tolerant but perform best with regular moisture. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. Cut back the plant after flowering to maintain a tidy appearance and promote good air circulation.
Remove any dead or damaged foliage in late fall or early spring before new growth emerges.
Propagate Aquilegia canadensis from fresh seeds sown in autumn or early spring, as they require a period of cold stratification. Division of established clumps in early spring or fall is another effective method.
Seeds may not come true to the parent plant if cross-pollination has occurred.
Repotting is rarely necessary for Aquilegia canadensis, as they are perennials that establish well in their preferred conditions.
If a plant becomes overcrowded or outgrows its container (if grown in pots), transplant it in early spring or fall. Choose a location with well-draining soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
| Species | Aquilegia canadensis |
Similar in genus Aquilegia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
