The Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is found in the entire eastern United States and Canada, but is restricted to two northern Florida counties where it grows on limestone outcrops. Columbine comes from colomba, the Latin word for the dove, while the genus name Aquilegia comes from aquila, the Latin word for eagle. To some, the petals resemble the claws of the warlike eagle while others think the inverted flower looks like doves clustered together. Hummingirds will visit the flowers in spring. This is a welcome addition to a woodland garden.
Columbine
Skirting the rocks at the forest edge
With a running flame from ledge to ledge,
Or swaying deeper in shadowy glooms,
A smoldering fire in her dusky blooms;
Bronzed and molded by wind and sun,
Maddening, gladdening every one
With a gypsy beauty full and fine,
A health to the crimson columbine!
Elaine Goodale (Mrs. Charles A. Eastman) (1863-1953)
