Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as Wild Columbine, is a native perennial found in woodlands, prairies, and rocky slopes throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers partial shade to light shade.
This plant features delicate, blue-green foliage and distinctive, nodding red and yellow flowers that bloom in spring to early summer. The tubular flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens. It readily self-seeds, creating naturalized clusters over time.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Aquilegia canadensis is a beautiful and adaptable choice for woodland gardens, pollinator-friendly landscapes, and rock gardens, offering elegant blooms and vital nectar for wildlife.
Aquilegia canadensis, commonly known as Wild Columbine, is a native perennial found in woodlands, prairies, and rocky slopes throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers partial shade to light shade.
This plant features delicate, blue-green foliage and distinctive, nodding red and yellow flowers that bloom in spring to early summer. The tubular flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens. It readily self-seeds, creating naturalized clusters over time.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Aquilegia canadensis is a beautiful and adaptable choice for woodland gardens, pollinator-friendly landscapes, and rock gardens, offering elegant blooms and vital nectar for wildlife.
Bloom time: late spring to early summer
Habitats: areas along railroad tracks; fens and bogs; limestone glades; openings in logged woodlands; partially shaded areas of cliffs; rocky open woodlands; sandy savannas; thinly wooded bluffs; wooded slopes
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 3 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to light shade
Soil: loamy; rocky; slightly sandy
