Ranunculaceae
eastern columbine
Aquilegia canadensis
Synonyms
Aquilegia coccinea
Aquilegia australis
Other Common Names
Canada columbine
Plant Type
Herbaceous Wildflower
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
3 ft. tall
1.5 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Deer
Inolerant of
Dry Soil, Direct Afternoon Sun
Propagation
By seed
Plant Propagation Notes
Mature rootstock is difficult to divide, so seed propagation is preferred. Seed requires cold moist stratification for 3-4 weeks.
Plant Planting Notes
Provide 1-2 foot spacing. Can benefit from adding lime or crushed eggshells to raise soil pH.
Plants/Diseases
Generally disease resistant. Sometimes leaf miners invade the leaves.
Wildlife Benefits
Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae
Leaves
Leaves alternate, compound with lobed margins.
Flowers
Tube shaped flowers with red on the outside and yellow on the inside with five spurs.
Fruit
Follicle
Toxicity
No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Light Exposure
Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture
Medium, Moist
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral (6.0-8.0), Basic (greater than 8.0)
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Forest, woodlands, and rock outcrops often over calcareous substrates.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Rare in the coastal plain. Common in the piedmont and mountains.