
Stammheim, Germany, 05/2022(Backlit)
Aquilegia vulgaris
Scientific Name
Aquilegia vulgaris
FAMILY
Ranunculaceae
LIFESPAN
perennial
BLOSSOM SYMMETRY
radial
Common Name
European columbine
ORDER
Ranunculales
BLOSSOM COLOR
purple
PHYLLOTAXIS
alternate
Aquilegia vulgaris, commonly known as columbine or granny’s bonnet, is a perennial wildflower native to Europe. It is distinguished by its nodding, blue to violet flowers with long, curved nectar spurs, a shape unlike most other meadow plants. The name Aquilegia comes from the Latin aquila (“eagle”), referring to the spurs resembling an eagle’s talons, while “granny’s bonnet” reflects the flower’s resemblance to old-fashioned headwear. Rich in symbolism, columbine has been associated with both love and folly in European folklore and medieval art, giving it a strong cultural presence beyond its delicate appearance.


