Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns
Aquilegia canadensis 'Little Lanterns'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Aquilegia canadensis 'Little Lanterns' is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its delicate, nodding, bell-shaped flowers with vibrant red and yellow hues, complemented by finely divided, fern-like foliage. This cultivar is distinguished by its compact growth habit and striking, lantern-like flowers that add a splash of color to woodland and border gardens, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
- Mist cuttings regularly to encourage rooting
- Plant in well-drained loamy soil in partial shade
- Water consistently during dry periods
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Use shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch and ensure consistent moisture.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote reblooming
- Mulch to conserve soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to harsh afternoon sun in hot climates ❌
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing which can cause weak stems ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns questions
What zones can Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns grow in?
Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns deer resistant?
Yes — Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns bloom?
Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns need full sun?
Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Aquilegia to compare
Columbine Mix
Aquilegia x hybrida 'Mix'
Columbine Double Flowers
Aquilegia vulgaris 'Double Flowers'
Columbine
Aquilegia x hybrida 'Melba Higgins'
Columbine McKana Hybrids
Aquilegia vulgaris 'McKana Hybrids'
Biedermeier Columbine
Aquilegia vulgaris 'Biedermeier'
Tequila Sunrise Columbine
Aquilegia x hybrida 'Tequila Sunrise'
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Grow Eastern Columbine Little Lanterns with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
