Wild columbine, Aquilgia canadensis
 
Wild columbine shows off its red and yellow tubular flowers right in time for the return of the ruby-throated hummingbird in May. It is an incredibly adaptable plant that grows on practically all soils and in all light conditions, even under conifers. It has attractive, evergreen foliage in the temperature range of 37 ºC to -23 ºC.
 
Ecology:
Wild columbine is one of the earliest nectar plants since many woodland plants provide only pollen. The long beak makes hummingbirds the main pollinators of wild columbine. In return, hummingbirds receive high-quality nectar that contains, besides sugar for energy, all the additional amino acids, proteins, salts, and essential oils that a hummingbird needs to be in optimal health to have a successful breeding season.
Its nectar is equally important for the early emerging bumblebee queens and some small sweat bees. You can observe the bees disappear inside the flower to feed on nectar.
Wild columbine is the host plant for the caterpillars of the Columbine Duskywing skipper. The seeds ripen early, and finches and buntings enjoy them alongside the abundant insect offerings at that time of the year. 
 
Growing conditions:
Wild columbine is found in woodlands, forest edges, rocky slopes and alvars. In the garden, it thrives in part sun in medium-moist, poor soil, but can easily grow in many difficult sites, including shade, dry areas and little and poor soil, such as in rock gardens and containers.