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Aquilegia canadensis
Late spring wildflower with yellow petals abutted by red sepals and red spurs. The red spurs (with rounded ends) are full of nectar; this nectar attracts insects and hummingbirds. The leaves of Aquilegia canadensis are a food source for the Columbine Duskywing (Erynnis lucilius) butterfly. When damaged, this plant releases hydrogen cyanide. This mechanism prevents (most) small arthropods from feeding successfully on the plant. It also makes it mildly toxic to other wildlife and humans.
Growing on the side of a road on a sunny hillside at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park in Marietta, Georgia.
This species is listed as S4 (Apparently Secure) on NatureServe Explorer.
Spotted on May 7, 2009
Submitted on Dec 29, 2017
4 Comments
I'm so glad you enjoyed the spotting, Leuba! <3
Thank you for the information Lisa. I love the flowers - such delicate structures.
Thanks for the nomination, Ashley!!
Your spotting has been nominated for the Spotting of the Week. The winner will be chosen by the Project Noah Rangers based on a combination of factors including: uniqueness of the shot, status of the organism (for example, rare or endangered), quality of the information provided in the habitat and description sections. There is a subjective element, of course; the spotting with the highest number of Ranger votes is chosen. Congratulations on being nominated!