Aquilegia Canadensis
Aquilegia canadensis
Aquilegia canadensis is a native North American wildflower beloved for its nodding red and yellow spurred blooms. It symbolizes love, courage, and resilience, and is a vital nectar source for hummingbirds and pollinators.
Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
Spring to early summer (April to July)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: red hot pokers and columbines also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Columbine has been a symbol of love and courage across European and Native American traditions. The genus name Aquilegia derives from the Latin aquila (eagle), referencing the spurred petals resembling eagle talons. In the Victorian language of flowers, columbine represented resolved to win and was associated with folly or anxious anticipation depending on context. Native American peoples saw the plant as a love charm, and it remains a cherished symbol of resilience in native plant gardening movements.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Part shade to part sun; tolerates full sun with adequate moisture
Water
Moderate; tolerates dry conditions once established but prefers consistent moisture in partial shade
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky or loamy, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5), Low to moderate fertility
Expert Growing Tips
Allow plants to self-seed freely for a naturalized colony effect
Sow seeds in fall outdoors for natural cold stratification and spring germination
Cut back foliage after bloom to encourage fresh growth and reduce leaf miner damage
Avoid overwatering in summer as crown rot can occur in waterlogged soil
Plant near spring-migrating hummingbird routes as a critical early nectar source
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Native pollinator and wildlife gardens
- Woodland and shade garden borders
- Naturalized meadow plantings
- Cottage garden accents
- Rock gardens on shaded slopes
Traditional Uses
- Native American peoples historically used small amounts of crushed seeds as a love charm (rubbed on hands); however, all parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids and should not be ingested
- Used in traditional herbal contexts for headache and fever relief in very small, controlled amounts; not recommended for home use due to toxicity
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Aquilegia Canadensis
Is Aquilegia canadensis toxic to humans or pets?
Yes, all parts of Aquilegia canadensis contain toxic alkaloids and should not be ingested by humans, cats, or dogs. Keep children and pets away from the plant, especially the seeds.
Does wild columbine come back every year?
Aquilegia canadensis is a perennial, but individual plants can be short-lived. It reliably perpetuates itself through prolific self-seeding, so a colony tends to persist and expand year after year even as older plants fade.
What does the columbine flower symbolize?
Columbine has long symbolized love, courage, and resilience. In the Victorian language of flowers it was associated with determination and anxious anticipation, while Native American traditions used it as a symbol of love and attraction.
Does Aquilegia canadensis attract hummingbirds?
Yes, it is one of the best plants for attracting ruby-throated hummingbirds. Its red tubular spurs are perfectly shaped for hummingbird bills, and its spring bloom coincides with the birds northward migration, providing a vital nectar source.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria
Red Hot Poker produces dramatic spikes of tubular flowers in fiery colors from red to yellow. It symbolizes passion, strength, and standing out from the crowd.
Columbine
Aquilegia vulgaris (and other spp.)
Columbine is an elegant perennial with distinctive spurred flowers in various colors. It symbolizes courage, determination, and spiritual growth.
White Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
White Beardtongue is a showy native perennial with spikes of white tubular flowers accented by purple nectar guides. Its long blooming period and adaptability make it perfect for pollinator gardens and sustainable landscapes.