Columbine native to Mexico and the southern United States (Texas, Arizona), this species is distinguished by its spectacular bicolored flowers — star-shaped red-pink sepals and yellow-orange petals — borne on slender stems that can reach 60 to 90 cm in height. Its straight and elongated spurs, pointed upwards, are characteristic and reveal an adaptation to pollination by hummingbirds, which are very present in its native range. The bouquet of yellow stamens, clearly visible, contributes to the elegance of the flower.
It appreciates the shaded and cool areas of subtropical mountain forests. Hardy to about -15°C (zone 5-6), it is cultivated in European gardens for the originality and warmth of its colors.