Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine

Aquilegia x Earlybird 'Red Yellow'

Nature Hills Nursery

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine Blooms 2-3 Weeks Earlier than Standard Varieties for Spring Color
Thrives in Zones 3-9
Grows 1 ft Tall and Wide
Showy Yellow, Red Blooms From Late Spring to Early Summer
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant

$31¹⁸

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Plant Size

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: These perennials thrive in 4 to 6 hours of sun. While they tolerate full sun in cooler climates, providing dappled afternoon shade in warmer regions prevents the red and yellow colors from bleaching and protects the foliage from scorching.
Soil: Aim for rich, well drained soil that holds moisture without becoming swampy. If you are dealing with heavy clay, mix in a few handfuls of compost or leaf mold to improve drainage and prevent the roots from suffocating in standing water.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, keep the soil consistently moist like a wrung out sponge to help the roots establish. Once mature, the Earlybird™ series is relatively self sufficient, but you should still provide deep soakings during dry spells to prevent the leaves from drooping. If watering is hit or miss, you will notice the plant producing fewer nectar spurs and smaller flower heads.

Pruning Tips

Columbines bloom on stems produced from the previous year's energy, so wait until the first flowers fade before reaching for the shears. Snip off spent flower stalks down to the base of the foliage to encourage a potential second flush of blooms and keep the plant from looking "leggy." Think of this as a quick summer haircut that redirects the plant’s energy from making seeds back into root health.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your plants with a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring as the first leaves emerge. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the growing season because this produces soft, lush growth that is highly susceptible to powdery mildew and winter damage. A thin layer of organic mulch around the base will also provide a steady stream of nutrients throughout the season.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Compact/Dwarf, Flowering, Deer-resistant, Attracts Hummingbirds, Attracts pollinators, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone	3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	1 ft
Width	1 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Chalky, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Upright
Blooms In	Spring, Summer
Flower Color	Yellow, Red
Foliage Color	Green
Native	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Columbine
Botanical Name	Aquilegia x Earlybird 'Red Yellow'
Species	x
Cultivar	Red Yellow
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Bold Two-Toned Blooms Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine

The Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine (Aquilegia x Earlybird 'Red Yellow') is a compact, early-flowering perennial that brings bright, bicolor charm to gardens and landscapes. With its vibrant red outer petals and sunny yellow inner petals, this Columbine stands out in spring gardens, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.

Its long bloom time, compact growth habit, and exceptional cold hardiness make it an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, and container plantings.

Key Features of Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine

Striking Bicolor Flowers – Unique red and yellow blooms add vibrant contrast to spring landscapes.
Early and Long Blooming – Blooms earlier than most Columbines, with flowers lasting from spring into early summer.
Compact Growth Habit – Grows 9-12 inches tall and 10-12 inches wide, making it ideal for small spaces and containers.
Cold Hardy & Heat Tolerant – Thrives in USDA Zones 3-9, performing well in a wide range of climates.
Attracts Pollinators – A favorite of hummingbirds, Columbines also support beneficial wildlife.
Deer and Rabbit Resistant – Foliage is unappealing to browsing animals, making it great for open gardens.
Low Maintenance & Easy to Grow – Thrives with minimal care, adapting to various soil conditions.

Landscaping with Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine

This vibrant, compact Columbine is perfect for a variety of garden settings:

Borders and Edging – Add cheerful spring color to garden beds and walkways.
Wildlife and Pollinator Gardens – Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
Rock Gardens and Slopes – Thrives in well-draining, rocky soils, perfect for sloped landscapes.
Container Plantings – Its small size and early blooms make it a standout choice for patios and balconies.
Woodland and Shade Gardens – Grows well in partial shade, adding color to shaded garden areas.
Companion Planting – Complements Ferns, Hostas, Bleeding Hearts, and other spring bloomers for a layered effect!
Cut Flower Gardens – These colorful blooms have strong stems that support them wonderfully in bouquets!

Care & Maintenance

This hardy and low-maintenance perennial thrives with minimal effort, Columbines are easy to grow! Read more care tips in our Garden Blog!

Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; thrives in morning sun with afternoon shade.
Soil: Well-draining, loamy or sandy soil is ideal; tolerates various soil types.
Watering: Water regularly when young; once established, it is somewhat drought-tolerant.
Mulching: A thin layer of mulch helps retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage extended blooming. Cut back foliage in fall.
Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.

Brighten Your Garden with Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine

The Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine is an exceptional early-blooming perennial, offering bold color, pollinator appeal, and effortless beauty. This compact, easy-care plant is a must-have for spring landscapes.

Order yours at Nature Hills today and bring cheerful, two-toned spring blooms to your garden this season!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine suitable for?

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-9, making it suitable for most North American climates. This cold-hardy perennial tolerates both harsh winters and summer heat. Plant it in spring for reliable blooms year after year across this wide growing range.

What is the mature height and width of Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine?

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine reaches 9-12 inches tall and 10-12 inches wide at maturity. This compact size makes it perfect for front borders, rock gardens, and containers. Shop this space-saving perennial at naturehills.com for small garden areas.

What are the recommended planting zones for this columbine variety?

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine thrives in USDA Zones 3-9, making it suitable for most North American climates. This variety is both cold hardy and heat tolerant, performing well across a wide temperature range. Plant in spring or fall for best establishment.

Does Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine grow well in full shade or partial shade?

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine grows well in partial shade but struggles in full shade. This perennial performs best with morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled light throughout the day. Plant it in woodland gardens or alongside hostas and ferns for optimal growth and flowering.

What are the watering requirements for Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine after planting?

Water newly planted Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine regularly for the first few weeks until established. This hardy perennial adapts to various soil conditions and becomes quite drought tolerant once rooted. Provide moderate, consistent moisture and avoid overwatering in well-draining soils.

Is Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine deer and rabbit resistant?

Yes, Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine is naturally deer and rabbit resistant due to its foliage being unappealing to browsing animals. This makes it an excellent choice for open gardens where wildlife browsing is a concern. Plant it confidently in exposed areas without additional protection.

What is the bloom time for Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine flowers?

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine blooms from spring into early summer, flowering earlier than most Columbines. The bicolor red and yellow flowers provide an extended display of color in your garden. Plant in partial shade to full sun for best bloom performance.

How is Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine shipped—bare root, potted, or seeds?

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine is shipped as a potted plant, not bare root or seeds. This ensures the compact 9-12 inch perennial establishes quickly in your garden. Plant in spring for immediate blooms that attract hummingbirds through early summer in zones 3-9.

Earlybird™ Red Yellow Columbine

Aquilegia x Earlybird 'Red Yellow'