Genus: Aquilegia for aquila, ' eagle' referring to talon shape of the petal spurs
Species: formosa means "beautiful"!
aka Western Columbine, Red Columbine, Sitka Columbine. The common name, Columbine, comes from columba, a dove, in stark contrast to an eagle. One of the park's "wow" flowers. The petal shape is unique; distinguished with five long straight reddish spurs with yellow nectar-swollen tips. Projecting downward are yellow blades and the stamens. The plant grows to 3' (1 m). The Haida called it 'red rain-flowers' and their childern were told it would rain if they picked it (ref. Pojar). Common in moist areas above 2,500' elevation.
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: Owyhigh Lake (east)/Kotsuck Creek
Date: July 9, 2005
Location: within 1.0 mi. east of Owyhigh Lakes near falls on Kotsuck Creek(photo)
