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EXPLORE > PLANTS > ANGIOSPERMS
Aquilegia formosa
Red columbine is a common wildflower found in both wild and urban areas throughout the Pacific Northwest. It grows on thin upright stalks averaging 23 inches (60 cm) in height. It will bloom during the spring and summer, producing an elegant but fragile looking flower with scarlet-colored sepals which form a ring around bright yellow interior petals. The blooms will droop toward the ground and may resemble hanging lanterns.
Red columbine is often used as an ornamental plant in urban areas because its brilliant flowers will attract both butterflies and hummingbirds. However, it is also browsed by deer and therefore won’t stay long if planted in yards.
One Native American legend called the plant a “Red Rain Flower” and encouraged people not to pick the blooms as this would prevent rain from falling.
Distribution
The red columbine can be found from southern Alaska to Baja California. Its eastern limit is Montana. It is most commonly found in meadows, woodlands, mixed-evergreen and coniferous forests, usually along riparian areas. It prefers sunny or partially-shaded locales.
Conservation Status
Common.
Aquilegia formosa
Red columbine is a common wildflower found in both wild and urban areas throughout the Pacific Northwest. It grows on thin upright stalks averaging 23 inches (60 cm) in height. It will bloom during the spring and summer, producing an elegant but fragile looking flower with scarlet-colored sepals which form a ring around bright yellow interior petals. The blooms will droop toward the ground and may resemble hanging lanterns.
Red columbine is often used as an ornamental plant in urban areas because its brilliant flowers will attract both butterflies and hummingbirds. However, it is also browsed by deer and therefore won’t stay long if planted in yards.
One Native American legend called the plant a “Red Rain Flower” and encouraged people not to pick the blooms as this would prevent rain from falling.
Distribution
The red columbine can be found from southern Alaska to Baja California. Its eastern limit is Montana. It is most commonly found in meadows, woodlands, mixed-evergreen and coniferous forests, usually along riparian areas. It prefers sunny or partially-shaded locales.
Conservation Status
Common.
