Columbine grows from seed in my yard as well. The yellow variety tolerates full sun. It pops up all over the place but it isn't as troublesome as some wildflowers that re-seed themselves.

The red and yellow columbine sticks to the shade. The shape of the columbine flower, from the bud through the full blooms, captivates me. I know that many people see shooting stars when they look at these flowers, but I am more often reminded of the monster from the Alien movies – the one that chased Sigourney Weaver from planet to planet. But I see a prettier, friendlier alien…