Golden columbine
Aquilegia chrysantha
Last reviewed: August 2026
Golden columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha) is a perennial forb native to AZ, CO, NM, TX and 1 more states. It blooms in April, May, June, and July. The flowers draw hummingbirds, bees, and moths. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–36" H × 18"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, NM, TX and 1 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees, moths
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 432 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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A clumping perennial with delicate, lobed blue-green foliage and long-spurred, nodding yellow flowers held on slender stems above the leaves. Its graceful form suits shaded borders and woodland-style plantings.
Growing Golden columbine
Grow Golden columbine in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 36 inches tall and spread 18 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Golden columbine is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Host plant for Columbine duskywing.
The long floral spurs suit hummingbirds and long-tongued bees especially well, and the foliage hosts caterpillars of a native skipper butterfly.
Common questions
- How much sun does Golden columbine need?
- Golden columbine grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Golden columbine bloom?
- Golden columbine blooms in April, May, June, and July.
- Where is Golden columbine native?
- Golden columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha) is native to AZ, CO, NM, TX and 1 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What butterflies or moths does Golden columbine host?
- Golden columbine is a larval host plant for Columbine duskywing.
- Is Golden columbine HOA-friendly?
- Golden columbine is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Golden columbine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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