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Description
Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is a hybrid variety that is a cross between Delphinium elatum and Delphinium grandiflorum. The plant produces tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers that bloom from early to mid-summer. The flowers have a mass of tiny, dark-centered flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant can reach a height of 3 to 4 feet and a spread of 1 to 2 feet. It is a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender is a tall, erect, and clump-forming perennial. The plant has deeply lobed, dark green leaves that are palmately divided into 3 to 7 lobes. The flowers are borne on long spikes that rise above the foliage. Each spike can have up to 50 flowers, and each flower is about 2 inches in size. The flowers have a deep blue-purple color with a white center. The plant blooms in early to mid-summer and can continue blooming if the spent flowers are removed.
Care Guide
Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender requires regular care to grow and bloom at its best. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender can grow in hardiness zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender is susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Slugs and Snails: These pests can chew through the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug and snail bait to control them.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white coating on the leaves and can affect the plant’s growth and flowering. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender is native to Europe but can grow in a variety of habitats. It prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender a perennial or an annual?
A: Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender is a perennial plant.
Q: Can Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers, but it requires regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I fertilize Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender grow in shade?
A: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Related Plants
– Delphinium elatum ‘King Arthur’- Delphinium grandiflorum ‘Blue Butterfly’- Delphinium ‘Magic Fountains’
References
– “Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/delphinium-elatum-guardian-lavender- “Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender.” Plant Finder. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280178&isprofile=0&pt=7- “Delphinium Elatum Guardian Lavender.” High Country Gardens. https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/delphinium/delphinium-elatum-guardian-lavender
