Columbia Aconite
Aconitum columbianum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Columbia Aconite is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a moderate level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, IA and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Columbia aconite is a tall perennial wildflower that produces distinctive hooded blue or purple flowers on upright stems during summer months. This moisture-loving plant thrives in partially shaded areas and dies back completely in winter, leaving no above-ground presence during dormancy.
In an HOA neighborhood
Columbia Aconite takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely toxic plant unsafe around children and pets
- Tall wildflower appearance looks unmanicured
- Completely disappears in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The unique hooded flowers attract bees and hummingbirds during the summer blooming period. This native wildflower provides nectar for pollinators in shaded garden areas where few other flowering plants thrive.
Common questions
- How much sun does Columbia Aconite need?
- Columbia Aconite grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Columbia Aconite bloom?
- Columbia Aconite blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Columbia Aconite native?
- Columbia Aconite (Aconitum columbianum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Columbia Aconite toxic to livestock?
- Columbia Aconite is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (moderate severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- What pollinators does Columbia Aconite attract?
- Columbia Aconite draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Columbia Aconite HOA-friendly?
- Columbia Aconite takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Columbia Aconite? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz