Columbine, Yellow columbine
Latin Name: Aquilegia flavescens
USDA Hardiness: 4-8
Native Range: NORTHERN AMERICA: Canada (Alberta, British Columbia), United States (Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, Utah)
Edibility Rating: 2 / 5
Medicinal Rating: 1 / 5
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Medicinal Uses
Edible Uses
Edible Parts: Flowers | Edible Uses: Flowers - raw. Rich in nectar, they are sweet and delightful[172], they make a very attractive addition to mixed salads and can also be used as a thirst-quenching munch in the garden[K].
Cultivation
Succeeds in ordinary garden soil, preferring a moist but not wet soil and a sunny position[1]. Intolerant of heavy clay[200]. A very ornamental plant[1], it is closely related to A. formosa and hybridizes with it where their ranges overlap[200, 270]. Most species are short-lived, dying out after 2 - 3 years, though they usually produce seed prolifically[200]. However, they are very apt to hybridize with other members of the genus and so it becomes difficult to keep a species true to type if more than one is grown in the garden[200]. Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits[233]. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes[54].
Known Hazards
Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, it belongs to a family that contains a number of mildly toxic species. It is therefore wise to exercise some caution. The flowers are probably perfectly safe to eat.
Habitats
Moist mountain meadows and alpine slopes at elevations of 1300 - 3500 metres[270].