Description. Red Columbine is common at low elevations in moist meadows and open forests. The 5 red wing-like sepals hang over the 5 yellow petals, and are a favorite food source for both hummingbirds and butterflies. Although the flowers, in clusters of 2-5 per branch, droop, the capsular seed-heads stand upright, spreading seeds far and wide when brushed up against by passing animals and humans.

Historical plant use. Although the blooms can be eaten raw, the plants themselves were used as a famine food. Columbine was used as good luck charms for love and gambling, and also as a decoction for a hair wash.

Unusual aspects of this plant. The seed is poisonous.