Contents
Description
Delphinium Bicolor, also known as the Alpine Delphinium or Two-coloured Larkspur, is a stunning plant that belongs to the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. This herbaceous perennial is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows in open meadows, rocky slopes, and alpine tundra. This plant has a tall and slender stem that can reach up to 60cm in height. Its foliage is deeply lobed and arranged in a basal rosette. The flowers are the highlight of Delphinium Bicolor, with their striking two-tone coloration. They have a deep blue-violet upper petal and a white lower petal that is surrounded by a blue-violet spur. The flowering period is from June to August, and the blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
Delphinium Bicolor is a majestic plant that can add a splash of color to any garden or landscape. Its towering stem is covered with deeply lobed leaves that are bluish-green in color. The flowers are the main attraction, with their striking blue-violet and white coloration. Each bloom has five petals that are arranged in a loose, open cluster. The upper petal is the largest and most prominent, while the lower petal is small and surrounded by a spur. The flowers are also fragrant, with a sweet, honey-like scent that attracts pollinators.
Care Guide
Delphinium Bicolor is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as its basic needs are met. Here are some care tips to keep your plants healthy and thriving:
Water
Delphinium Bicolor prefers consistent moisture, but it is important not to overwater it. Water deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Feed Delphinium Bicolor with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, and then again after flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can cause leafy growth at the expense of blooms.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil (pH 6.0-7.5). Avoid heavy clay soils, as they can cause root rot.
Sunlight
Delphinium Bicolor requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer blooms.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Delphinium Bicolor is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues to watch out for:
Pests
– Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Slugs and snails: These mollusks can chew holes in the leaves and flowers. Control with slug bait or beer traps.
Diseases
– Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and improve drainage to prevent this issue.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Control with fungicides or by improving air circulation.
Habitat
Delphinium Bicolor is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows in open meadows, rocky slopes, and alpine tundra. It is well-suited for rock gardens, cottage gardens, and meadow plantings. It can also be grown in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Delphinium Bicolor grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Delphinium Bicolor?
A: Feed it with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, and then again after flowering.
Q: Can Delphinium Bicolor tolerate partial shade?
A: Yes, it can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer blooms.
Q: How do I propagate Delphinium Bicolor?
A: It can be propagated by seed or by division in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Delphinium Bicolor:- Delphinium elatum- Delphinium grandiflorum- Delphinium nudicaule- Delphinium requienii- Delphinium tricorne
References
– “Delphinium Bicolor.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=267043.- “Delphinium Bicolor.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/26624/delphinium-bicolor/details. – “Delphinium Bicolor.” Wildscreen Arkive. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.arkive.org/delphinium-bicolor/delphinium-bicolor/.
