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Description
Delphinium Elatum, commonly known as the Alpine Delphinium or Candle Larkspur, is a stunning perennial flower that belongs to the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, where it grows in moist meadows and along streams. The plant can reach a height of up to 6 feet and blooms in late spring to early summer, producing tall spikes of showy flowers in shades of blue, white, and pink.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
| Species | Elatum |
Appearance
Delphinium Elatum is a tall, upright plant with a bushy habit. It has deeply lobed, palmate leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers are borne on tall, sturdy spikes that can reach up to 6 feet in height. Each spike can produce dozens of blooms, which are bell-shaped and have five petals. The petals are arranged in a distinct spur shape, which gives the flower its common name of Larkspur. The flowers are typically blue, but can also be found in shades of white, pink, and purple.
Care Guide
Delphinium Elatum requires specific care to thrive and produce its best blooms. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this beautiful flower:- Water: Delphinium Elatum requires consistent moisture to grow well. Water the plants deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Feed Delphinium Elatum with a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.- Soil: Delphinium Elatum prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.- Sunlight: Delphinium Elatum requires full sun to partial shade. Plant the flowers where they will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Delphinium Elatum is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delphinium Elatum is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Control aphids with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Slugs and Snails: These pests are attracted to the tender foliage of Delphinium Elatum and can cause significant damage. Control slugs and snails with bait or by handpicking them off the plants.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled by improving air circulation around the plant and using a fungicidal spray.
Habitat
Delphinium Elatum is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, where it grows in moist meadows and along streams. It prefers cool, moist climates and is often found at high elevations. The plant has been naturalized in other parts of the world, including North America, where it is grown as an ornamental garden plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate Delphinium Elatum?
A: Delphinium Elatum can be propagated by dividing the plants in early spring or by taking stem cuttings in late summer.
Q: Can Delphinium Elatum be grown in containers?
A: While Delphinium Elatum is a large plant, it can be grown in containers if given enough space and water.
Q: How often should I fertilize Delphinium Elatum?
A: Feed Delphinium Elatum with a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears, and again after the first bloom cycle.
Q: How do I protect Delphinium Elatum from frost?
A: In areas with cold winters, protect Delphinium Elatum from frost by covering the plants with a layer of mulch or straw in late fall.
Related Plants
– Delphinium grandiflorum- Delphinium nudicaule- Delphinium exaltatum- Delphinium belladonna- Delphinium barbeyi
References
– “Delphinium Elatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=p370.- “The Alpine Delphinium.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/100023/i-delphinium-elatum-i/details.
