Rocky Mountain Columbine, Colorado blue columbine, Dailey's columbine, White Colorado columbine

Medicinal Uses

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers | Edible Uses: Flowers - raw. Rich in nectar, they have a sweet taste[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 sheltered sunny position[1]. It also succeeds in partial shade[187]. Intolerant of heavy clay soils[200]. A very ornamental plant, it is the state flower of Colorado[187, 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

A wide range of habitats, especially in aspen groves[187], in the upper levels of the Rockies[60]. Rocky slopes or near streams in open woodland or herbland at elevations of 2100 - 3600 metres[270].