Columbia Aconite
Aconitum columbianum
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
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.
Does Columbia Aconite fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.