There are a few of these deep purple Aquilegia growing in our yard. They have been here since we moved in. Most of the other columbines are a pinkish color. We aren't sure if they have crossed or like a Rose of Sharon new plants can come from the parent plant but be different colors?
I'm not sure what is the case in your garden but I have heard, and I've seen in my own garden that columbines seem to be prolific and promiscuous crossers. From about three original plants, one middle pink, one light pink, and one dark burgundy a lovely and diffuse array of colours over following years.
