Western Columbine
Aquilegia formosa · Ranunculaceae
- Form
- Perennial
- Height
- 1–3 ft
- Sun
- Part Shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Blooms
- May, Jun, Jul
- Pet toxicity
- Mild
🌿 California native
Quick facts
- Habitat: Moist Montane forest edges and cool Riparian spots
- Form / size: Perennial wildflower, 1–3 ft
- Sun: Part shade · Water: Moderate
- Blooms: Late spring–summer red-and-yellow nodding flowers · Pollinator value: High
Description
A showy mountain wildflower with nodding red sepals, yellow petals, and long backward spurs. The flowers are unmistakable once seen and look built for hummingbirds, which they are.
Wildlife & pollinators
An excellent hummingbird flower, also used by bees.
Habitat & range
Cool, moist mountain woods, seeps, streambanks, and meadow edges across the Sierra and western mountains.
In the garden
Best in cooler mountain or woodland settings with some moisture and protection from harsh drying heat.
Propagation
From seed sown fresh or with cold treatment; can also self-sow in suitable damp mountain gardens.
Where to see it near you
- iNaturalist — observed across California (map)
- Moist forest and creekside settings in the Eastern Sierra and other California mountain ranges.
