Western Columbine (Aquilegia formosa)

Family: Ranunculaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Aquilegia formosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in nectar, they are sweet and delightful, they make a very attractive addition to mixed salads and can also be used as a thirst-quenching munch in the garden. — Rich in nectar, they are sweet and delightful, they make a very attractive addition to mixed salads and can also be used as a thirst-quenching munch in the garden.; Children enjoy sucking out the sweet nectar from the base of the flowers.; Early spring greens cooked and eaten as a vegetable.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Widely distributed in many habitats from the coast to the coastal mountains. Moist woods and damp places in scrub and on banks from sea-level to 3000 metres. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)