Delphinium

Delphinium is a stately, elegant perennial, a staple of English cottage gardens. Dark green glossy foliage topped by huge spikes of showy spurred flowers in early summer. Also called larkspur (usually annual types).

About This Plant

Thrives in cool, moist summers; struggles in hot, dry heat (newer varieties more heat-tolerant). Sizes: dwarf <2 feet to towering 6 feet. Colors: blue, red, white, yellow; rich blues especially prized. Blooms late spring to early summer; good for cutting.

Special Features

• Good for cut flowers

Site Selection

Full sun to light shade, well-drained soil. Protect from strong winds to prevent top-heavy tall varieties from blowing over.

Planting Instructions

Spring, space 1–3 feet. Loosen soil 12–15 inches, add 2–4 inches compost. Plant at container depth, water thoroughly.

Care

Spring: thin compost + 2-inch mulch. Water if rainfall <1 inch/week—soil should never dry out. Stake tall varieties to prevent hollow stalks snapping. Deadhead after flowering for rebloom. After killing frost, cut stems to 1–2 inches. Divide every 3–4 years in spring.