Canary Columbine Aquilegia chrysantha

Golden Columbine is a herbaceous perennial in the Ranunculaceae family native to the western U.S.A. and Mexico. It is a spring bloomer with flowers that are good for cutting. It grows 2 - 3 ft. tall and wide. Each flower petal has a backward-pointing spur.  The name comes from the Latin word for eagle in reference to the flower’s five spurs which resemble an eagle's talon. The specific epithet means with golden flowers and they have a slight fragrance.  Propagation is done by seed as long as flowers are not deadheaded but will hybridize with other Columbines if grown too close together.

It grows in full sun to part shade.  It tolerates a wide range of soils with good drainage.  If planting in clay soils, add sand to help with the drainage but keep the ground moist to prolong the look of the foliage.  When the foliage declines, cut the plant to the ground.  It is resistant to damage from deer or rabbits. Cutting the flower stalks may encourage further blooming.

Plant in borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens, open shade gardens or naturalized areas.  Also a good selection for a hummingbird garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Crown-rot can occur in poorly drained soils. This plant will not be very tolerant of the hot humid summer areas of the southeast. Consider growing Aquilegia canadensis instead.  Spider mites and aphids may appear in hot and dry conditions. Plants may show stress and lose leaves when planted in too much sun in hot summer conditions. Foliage usually declines by mid-summer at which point it should be cut to the ground.