Which species is commonly referred to as Columbine?

Columbine is a common name that refers to several species within the genus Aquilegia. This genus is known for its distinctive, nodding flowers which often have spurs and can come in a variety of colors.

When considering the species most typically associated with the term "Columbine," Aquilegia sp. is a suitable choice as it encompasses various species of the Aquilegia genus. This designation allows for the general reference to Columbines without pinpointing a specific species, which is beneficial given that there are multiple species recognized commonly under that name, such as Aquilegia caerulea and Aquilegia vulgaris.

Each species within this genus, including the more specific ones, shares the common characteristics associated with Columbines, including their unique flower shapes. Distinct features like flower coloration and foliage can differ among species, but collectively they are recognized as Columbines in gardening and botanical contexts.

A broader reference such as Aquilegia sp. captures the essence of the question by acknowledging the diversity within the genus, which might be what the question was aiming to highlight. This flexibility makes Aquilegia sp. an apt answer when referring to Columbines in a general sense.