Charming Columbine flowers were originally found in Eastern Europe and have been native to North America for thousands of years. These beautiful flowers are related to the buttercup family their scientific name is Aquilegia, derived from latin Aquila meaning eagle.
Parts of the Columbine plant were used in medieval times for medicinal remedies to help sore throats and skin rashes. Native American also used the seeds and roots for ceremonial medicines.
In 1899 Colorado adopted the lavender and white Columbine as it's state flower. It is a protected flower in this state, where it is the responsibility of Coloradans to protect it. The law prohibits picking or removing the plants found growing in the wild on public lands.
Colorado Columbine flowers from my own garden
and
Colorado Columbine growing wild at Lower Ice Lakes Basin
The Columbine was also nominated to become the national flower of the United States in 1898 by the National Flower Association. The Columbine grew wild in every state, and was easy to cultivate in all regions of the country. It blooms from April through July so it is available for Memorial Day and the 4th of July holidays. They believed the Columbine would be a symbol of patriotism as the flower is shaped like a five point star and the spur shapes of the flower resembled the talons of the Bald Eagle. The dove shaped petals represented a symbol of peace. The National Flower Movement generated support across the nation as there were several poems and songs written about the Columbine. After decades of promoting the Columbine and other flowers the United States finally chose a national flower in 1985, it is the Rose.
The Columbine continues to be a charming popular flower through out the United States, it blooms in a variety of colors including yellow, red and the lavender blue. They are found in many flower gardens and are often the subject of artists and photographers.
Columbine blooms decorate homes and offices in a variety of artworks and other products.
In creating the Columbine Charms art collage I combined vintage newspaper advertisements, music and artworks with photographs of Columbine flowers from my garden. Here it is printed on 100% Pima cotton fabric that is 54" in width. This is a wonderful size for home decor projects.
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