Larkspur Delphinium - Delphinium

Larkspur Delphinium (Delphinium carolinianum) is an herbaceous perennial native to central and eastern North America. In its native ranger, whole prairies can be adorned with these slender flowers when in bloom. These flowers sit in a cluster atop a tall, elegant, unbranched fuzzy stem. When planted in your garden, it is a delightful addition to any border environment.

The blooms perform excellently as cut flowers and can be used in your interior floral displays or a bouquet to a loved one. The blooms of this plant are long-lasting and continue to add vibrant, multicolor focal points throughout their growth season. No bloom goes unnoticed and these attractive flowers entice butterflies, pollinators, and busy hummingbirds to your gardenscape.

Plant Details - Larkspur Delphinium

Family: Ranunculaceae

Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7

Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade

Water Needs: Low to moderate

Height: 1 to 4 ft

Spread: 12 to 18 in

Growth Rate: Moderate

Bloom Time: April to June

Flower Color: Various - Blue-violet, pale blue, or white

Wildlife Value: Attracts bees and butterflies

The Larkspur Delphinium is winter hardy. During the cooler months, the plant is reduced to a rosette of leaves draped across the ground. However, this rosette recedes before the flower blooms in the spring. Full sun to partial shade is most appropriate for these beautiful, tall flowers. While they can tolerate many different soil types, they do best in dry to moderate, humus-rich, fertile soils.

The plant gets its name from the Greek word for dolphin, “delphis”, which is reference to the shape of the flower bud. Interestingly, the seeds of this plant are medicinal and have been used to cure head lice when soaked in alcohol. However, they are toxic if ingested, so be wary!

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Larkspur Delphinium

These plants require deadheading for extra blooms, and occasional staking to make sure they do not topple over. However, they can be susceptible to slugs, so protected them appropriately. Once they are established, they are rabbit and deer-resistant, making them a great plant for gardens close to wildlife habitat.

Due to their maximum height of 4 ft, they make a great back drop of a floral garden bed in full sun. Plant these flowers along with other native wildflowers to attract a myriad of pollinators to your garden. They are reliable bloomers year on year.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Attractive to pollinators, winter hardy, great for bouquets With their tall and slender flower stems terminating in a burst of colorful blooms, these flowers bring elegance and delicacy to any home garden. Shop for Larkspur Delphiniums online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

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How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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