Western Columbine
Aquilegia formosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Aquilegia formosa (Western Columbine) is a native wildflower found throughout western North America, blooming from May through July with distinctive red and yellow spurred flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Western Columbine as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Aquilegia formosa (Western Columbine) is a delicate perennial with distinctive red and yellow nodding flowers on slender stems. It grows 1-3 feet tall, blooming from May through July and performing best in partial shade with regular moisture.
Growing Western Columbine
Grow Western Columbine in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Western Columbine is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone, backyard only.
- May self-seed if flower heads aren't removed
- Can look somewhat sparse after blooming
Wildlife value
Host plant for Orangetip butterfly.
Western Columbine is highly attractive to hummingbirds and also supports native bees and butterflies. The nectar-rich flowers with their unique spurred shape are perfectly designed for hummingbird feeding.
Common questions
- When does Western Columbine bloom?
- Western Columbine typically blooms from May through July, producing its characteristic red and yellow flowers during late spring and early summer.
- What pollinators visit Aquilegia formosa?
- Western Columbine attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. The long spurs of the flowers are particularly well-adapted for hummingbird pollination.
- Where is Western Columbine native?
- Aquilegia formosa is native to eight western states: California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
- What growing conditions does Western Columbine prefer?
- Western Columbine grows best in partial sun to partial shade with medium to high moisture levels. It tolerates a range of light conditions but prefers consistent soil moisture.
- Is Western Columbine toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Western Columbine as toxic to livestock.
- Is Western Columbine HOA-friendly?
- Western Columbine is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Western Columbine? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.