Red Columbine

Aquilegia formosa

Ranunculaceae

• Pacific Northwest Native 
• Part Shade-Shade
• 8"-18" wide x 18"-36" tall
• Drought Tolerant: No
• Evergreen: No
• Flower Color: Red and Yellow (May-August)
• Wildlife Value: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, beneficial insects, songbirds eat seeds

Western red columbine is a long-lived herbaceous perennial native from Alaska to California, naturally occurring in moist thickets, open groves, and along streams from low to subalpine elevations. It grows from a woody crown and prefers moist, well-drained soils with high organic matter. Adaptable to various light conditions, it performs best in dappled shade but tolerates sun to full shade with adequate moisture.

The plant forms dense clumps of attractive, finely divided, light green leaves reminiscent of maidenhair fern. Branched flower stems rise 1-3 feet above the foliage mound, bearing masses of pendant, nodding flowers with glowing red sepals and soft yellow petals. Each intricate bloom features straight spurs and bushy golden stamens. The spectacular display lasts 4-6 weeks from late spring through summer, enhanced by adequate moisture. Spent flowers develop into seed capsules attractive to finches.

This stunning wildflower beckons hummingbirds from afar with its bright red and yellow coloration. It also attracts butterflies, native bees, syrphid flies, and other beneficial insects. Mourning Cloak and Dusky Azure butterflies may visit, with the latter using it as a host plant. Songbirds feed on the seeds in late summer and fall. 

Excellent for brightening shaded areas in woodland gardens, rain gardens, and naturalistic plantings. Works well in borders, beds, or at forest edges where it can receive dappled light. Ideal near water features or in moist meadowscapes. Combines beautifully with Douglas fir, western azalea, meadowrue, western bleeding heart, inside-out flower, wild ginger, ferns, and evergreen huckleberry. Self-seeds prolifically in favorable conditions to form large colonies. Space 12-18 inches apart. May require supplemental summer water in drier locations. Susceptible to powdery mildew in drought-stressed conditions with poor air circulation; simply cut back affected foliage.