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Description
Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley, commonly known as giant larkspur, is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated for its showy spikes of flowers. The plant produces tall, sturdy stems that can reach up to six feet in height, with a spread of two to three feet. Each stem is densely packed with flowers, which can be blue, purple, pink or white in color. The blooms are large and showy, with a distinctive spur at the back of each petal. Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley is a popular choice for cut flower arrangements, as well as for garden borders and backdrops.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley is a tall, upright plant with a bushy habit. The stems are strong and sturdy, with a dark green color and a slightly rough texture. The leaves are deeply lobed and palmate, with a glossy finish. The flowers are arranged in dense, upright spikes that can reach up to two feet in length. Each individual flower has five petals that are fused at the base to form a characteristic spur. The petals are large and showy, with a range of colors from blue to white. The center of each flower contains a cluster of yellow stamens.
Care Guide
Water
Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During periods of drought, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring and again in midsummer. Alternatively, a liquid fertilizer can be applied every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil
Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley thrives in rich, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The soil should be amended with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, before planting.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In hot, dry climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial.
Hardiness Zones
Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, thrips, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests. Fungal diseases, such as crown rot and verticillium wilt, can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows in meadows, woodland clearings, and along stream banks. It prefers cool, moist conditions and is adapted to cold winters and mild summers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley a perennial or an annual?
A: Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley is a perennial plant, meaning it will come back year after year if properly cared for.
Q: Can Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley be grown in containers?
A: While Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley can be grown in containers, it requires a large pot and may be difficult to maintain in a confined space.
Q: How often should I deadhead Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley?
A: Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, can encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley should be deadheaded regularly throughout the blooming season.
Q: How long does Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley bloom?
A: Delphinium Elatum Jill Curley typically blooms from early summer to mid-fall, depending on the climate and growing conditions.
Related Plants
- Delphinium elatum ‘Black Knight’
- Delphinium elatum ‘Blue Lace’
- Delphinium elatum ‘Galahad’
- Delphinium elatum ‘King Arthur’
References
- BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. (n.d.). How to grow Delphinium ‘Jill Curley’. Retrieved from https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/delphinium-jill-curley/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Delphinium elatum ‘Jill Curley’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b149
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Delphinium elatum ‘Jill Curley’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/100384/Delphinium-elatum-Jill-Curley/Details
