Aquilegia canadensis

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Aquilegia Canadensis 5 Aquilegia Canadensis 4 Aquilegia Canadensis 3 Aquilegia Canadensis 1 Aquilegia Canadensis (2) Aquilegia C
Aquilegia Canadensis 5 Aquilegia Canadensis 4 Aquilegia Canadensis 3 Aquilegia Canadensis 1 Aquilegia Canadensis (2) Aquilegia C

Aquilegia canadensis

Common Name: Columbine

Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as Columbine, is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows 1 to 3 feet tall. It features distinctive red and yellow, nodding flowers with backward-pointing spurs, blooming from May to July. The foliage is light green and delicately lobed. Columbine thrives in woodlands and rocky slopes or cliffs, preferring well-drained sandy or loamy soils. It is known to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a popular choice for pollinator gardens. In landscaping, Columbine is valued for its unique floral structure and adaptability to various garden settings.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant, Seed
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches) 30
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 15
Bloom month(s) May, June, July
Bloom Color or Type Red
Dominance Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.