Utah Columbine

Utah Columbine (Aquilegia scopulorum) or Rock Columbine is a delicate high-country wildflower with nodding, white-purple blooms and long spurs that hover above lacy blue-green foliage. Native to rocky ledges, alpine meadows, and shady canyon walls, this perennial brings a touch of mountain serenity to shaded gardens and woodland edges. It thrives with a little moisture and protection from intense sun, making it ideal for north-facing beds, dry shade under trees, or pockets of filtered morning light.

A pollinator favorite, Utah Columbine adds quiet elegance and ecological value to shaded Utah landscapes. Its deer resistance and low maintenance needs make it an easy choice for naturalistic plantings. Pair with native companions like Creeping Oregon Grape (Mahonia repens), Tufted Hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa), Utah Serviceberry (Amelanchier utahensis) or Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides) for a layered woodland aesthetic that celebrates Utah’s alpine flora.

Photo: Kenzie Anderson-Bell