Delphinium Cardinale

Description

Delphinium Cardinale, commonly known as scarlet larkspur, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the western United States, particularly in California and Oregon. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has slender stems, deeply lobed green leaves, and striking scarlet flowers that bloom in late spring to summer. The flowers are arranged in a large, showy spike that can reach up to 2 feet long.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Delphinium Cardinale is a tall and elegant plant that can add a dramatic touch to any garden. The plant has a slender stem that can range from green to reddish-brown in color. The leaves are deeply lobed and can reach up to 6 inches long. The flowers are the highlight of this plant, with their bright scarlet color and large size. The petals are shaped like a spur and can reach up to 1 inch long. The flowers are arranged in a large spike that can reach up to 2 feet long.

Care Guide

Delphinium Cardinale is a hardy plant that can thrive in most conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:- Water: Delphinium Cardinale prefers moist soil, but make sure not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.- Soil: Delphinium Cardinale prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure the soil is slightly acidic with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.- Sunlight: Delphinium Cardinale prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Delphinium Cardinale can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Delphinium Cardinale is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause the leaves to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. Use slug bait or beer traps to control them.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and flowers. Use fungicides to control it.

Habitat

Delphinium Cardinale is native to the western United States, particularly in California and Oregon. It can be found in meadows, open woods, and along stream banks. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Delphinium Cardinale grow in containers?

A: Yes, Delphinium Cardinale can grow in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the plant’s long taproots.

Q: Can Delphinium Cardinale be grown from seeds?

A: Yes, Delphinium Cardinale can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds in fall or early spring and keep the soil moist until they germinate.

Q: How often should I fertilize Delphinium Cardinale?

A: Fertilize Delphinium Cardinale once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can Delphinium Cardinale tolerate drought?

A: No, Delphinium Cardinale prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Delphinium Cardinale:- Delphinium elatum (Bee Larkspur)- Delphinium grandiflorum (Chinese Delphinium)- Delphinium nudicaule (Canyon Larkspur)- Delphinium x belladonna (Belladonna Delphinium)

References

– “Delphinium Cardinale” by San Marcos Growers. Retrieved from https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1195- “Delphinium Cardinale” by Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=268977&isprofile=0&basic=delphinium%20cardinale- “Scarlet Larkspur (Delphinium Cardinale)” by Calflora. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1587