Wild columbine, Aquilgia canadensis
 
Wild columbine shows off its red and yellow tubular flowers right in time for the return of the ruby-throated hummingbird in May. It is an incredibly adaptable plant that grows on practically all soils and in all light conditions, even under conifers. It has attractive foliage that is evergreen between 37ºC and -23ºC.
 
Ecology:
Wild columbine is one of the earliest nectar plants since many woodland plants provide only pollen. The long beak makes hummingbirds the main pollinators of wild columbine. In return, they receive high-quality nectar that contains, besides sugar for energy, all the additional amino acids, proteins, salts, and essential oils that a hummingbird needs to be in optimal health to have a successful breeding season.
The early nectar is equally important for the early emerging bumble bee queens and some small sweat bees. You can observe the bees disappear inside the flower to feed on nectar.
Wild columbine is also a host plant for caterpillars. The seeds ripen early, and finches and buntings will eat them.
 
Growing conditions:
Wild columbine is found in woodlands, forest edges, rocky slopes and alvars. In the garden, it thrives in part sun in medium moist poor soil but can easily grow in many difficult sites, including in the shade, in dry areas, with little and poor soil, such as in rock gardens and containers.