Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

This is one of the most unique and beautiful of the wildflowers. It is not commonly found in our area, but can be found in Central Texas. They grow up to 3 feet tall and have clover like leaves. It is best to start the Columbine from seeds.

There are between 60 and 70 types of Columbines. In the Rocky Mountains they grow wild and are a beautiful purple. In Central Texas you can find the red, yellow, rose and occasionally white ones.

The word Columbine comes from the Latin word "Columba" meaning dove. Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote "O Columbine open your folded wrapper, where two twin doves dwell." Look closely and see the resemblance of the long tubes as the necks of doves and petals being their wings and tail feathers.

Although this plant is poisonous, Native Americans used it for several medicines and also believed it was a love charm.  The men of the tribes would crush the seeds and rub them on their hands and body believing it would enhance their attraction of the young maidens.

"Behold I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves."
Matthew 10:16 KJV