The scientific name "Aquilegia" is taken from the
Latin word aquila, which means "eagle".
It refers to the long spurs on the petals, which
reminded someone of an eagle's talons.
However, in contrast, the common name "columbine"
means "dove-like".
This species is the state flower of Colorado.
It often has blue sepals.
Yellow Columbine Aquilegia flavescens
The Yellow Columbine (the species name "flavescens"
means "yellow") is also called the California Columbine.
It has a smaller blossom than the Colorado Columbine,
but has the same distinctive shape.
Albion Basin
Wasatch Mountains
Salt Lake County, Utah
Columbine
