Habitat and Range
Columbine is a unique plant that most often grows in moist places in shady woods. The Crimson Columbine (above), grows up between 3000 ft and 9700 ft in all parts of the Sierra. Coville's Columbine (A. pubescens) grows from 9000 ft to 12,000 ft mainly between Tulare and Tuolumne Counties. They can be found in bloom from May until August.
Physical Description
Columbine can easily be identified by its nodding red flower that has obvious spurs, or nectaries, standing almost upright and yellow stamens that hang down below. The leaf of this perennial herb is usually 2-3-ternate near the base and increasingly simple in shape in the upper plant. The lobed leaflets almost look like paws. The fruit is an erect seed-bearing capsule.
Food Uses
The flowers can be eaten raw in small quantities. They make a great addition to salads or garnish for other meals. The plant contains a cyanogenic glycoside that is toxic when ingested in quantity. The toxin is highly concentrated in the seeds and roots.
CAUTION: Eat in moderation and do NOT consume the seeds or roots. Columbine contains a dangerous toxin that can be fatal if consumed in quantities.
Medicinal Uses
Columbine has a history of use for treating heart palpitations and ulcers, but it has gradually lost its appeal as medicine because of the dangerous toxins.
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