Red columbine

Edibility

Toxic sometimes fatal.The plant when injure liberates hydrogen cyanide (prussic acid).The seeds also contain hydrogen cyanide and have caused the death of some children who have consumed.

Medical

This plant has been used for its medicinal virtues, seeds are aphrodisiac and the roots contain berberine a substance with similar effects to morphine, but given its toxic effects, it is no longer used for these purposes.

Cultivation

Nowadays the Red Columbine is mainly used as an ornamental plant. If it resents transplanting, seeds bloom after two years.The Red Columbine has earned an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.