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Description
Delphinium Andesicola, commonly known as Andean Delphinium, is a perennial flowering plant from the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to South America, specifically the Andean regions of Bolivia, Peru, and Chile. This plant can grow up to 30 inches in height and produces stunning blue-violet flowers on spikes that bloom in early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
The Andean Delphinium has a vertical growth habit and can grow up to 30 inches in height. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a bright green color. The flowers are blue-violet in color, with five petals that form a distinctive spur. The spikes can grow up to 12 inches long and are covered in a multitude of flowers. The plant blooms in early summer and can continue blooming through the fall.
Care Guide
Andean Delphiniums prefer a moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. They can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Watering should be done regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist. These plants are hardy in USDA zones 7-9 and can tolerate temperatures down to 0°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Andean Delphiniums can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew and root rot can also occur if the plant is exposed to prolonged periods of high humidity. Good air circulation and proper watering can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
The Andean Delphinium is native to the Andean regions of Bolivia, Peru, and Chile. It grows at elevations of 8,000-13,000 feet in rocky soils and can be found in meadows, along streams, and in open woodlands. This plant is well adapted to the harsh mountain climate and can tolerate cold temperatures and high altitude.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Andean Delphiniums be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Andean Delphiniums can be grown in containers as long as they are provided with a moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Q: How often should Andean Delphiniums be watered?
A: Andean Delphiniums should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Andean Delphiniums?
A: Andean Delphiniums are hardy in USDA zones 7-9 and can tolerate temperatures down to 0°F.
Q: How often should Andean Delphiniums be fertilized?
A: Andean Delphiniums can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Delphinium elatum
- Delphinium grandiflorum
- Delphinium nudicaule
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/delphinium-andesicola
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/delphinium/growing-and-caring-for-delphinium-plants.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/deland/all.html
