Product Review

The name "columbine" is derived from the Latin "columba," or dove, since an upside down columbine bloom looks like a circle of doves around a fountain. The Latin genus name "Aquilegia" means "eagle," a reference to the spikes on the back of the flower that resemble an eagle's talons. These unique hollow spurs on the blossoms contain an abundance of nectar, though only hummingbirds and other long-tongued feeders such as the hawk moth can reach it. Ruby-throated hummingbirds especially love this plant. Its natural habitats are woodland areas, rocky slopes, or along streams. A native wildflower, columbine has thrived in both America and Europe since the 1600s; in medieval times, these flowers symbolized foolishness because of their resemblance to a court jester's slippers. Native Americans used this plant medicinally to treat various complaints such as poison ivy rash, heart trouble, or fever; they also crushed the seeds to obtain a pleasing perfume.