Aquilegia canadensis / Eastern Red Columbine

The unique “exploded drop” flowers for Aquilegia canadensis are striking. What’s additionally striking is how delicate the foliage is - the flowers appear to be floating at first glance. It seems the slightest breeze could end it all, but not so. Eastern Red Columbine is surprisingly resilient. Hummingbird enjoy the flowers which bloom in April and May, and the foliage remains attractive all season even after the blooms are gone. Plant Aquilegia canadensis in full sun to part shade in medium soils, though part shade is best. Grows 2 to 3 feet high with a 1 to 1.5 foot spread. Tolerates rabbit and deer browse as well as drought.