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Description
Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is a hybrid variety of Delphinium that produces tall spikes of blue flowers with white centers. The plant boasts a long blooming season, starting from early summer and continuing until the first frost. The flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies can grow up to 6 feet tall, with a spread of 2-3 feet. The plant has green leaves that are deeply lobed and palmate. The flower spikes are composed of numerous blue flowers with white centers, arranged in a dense raceme. The flowers have a diameter of 1-2 inches and a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
To ensure the best growth and blooming performance of Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies, follow the care guide below:
Water: Delphiniums prefer moist soil, so water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.
Soil: Delphiniums prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight: Delphiniums require full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent the flowers from wilting.
Hardiness Zones: Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delphiniums are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
Pests: Aphids, slugs, snails, spider mites, and thrips.
Diseases: Crown rot, powdery mildew, rust, and verticillium wilt.
To prevent these problems, provide good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected or damaged plant parts.
Habitat
Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies is native to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows in moist meadows, woodland edges, and along streams. In cultivation, the plant is best suited for borders, cottage gardens, and cut flower gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies grow in containers?
A: Yes, but the plant requires a large container and regular watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
Q: How often should I deadhead the flowers?
A: Deadhead the flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Cut the flower spikes down to the base once they have finished blooming.
Q: Can I propagate Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies from seeds?
A: Yes, sow the seeds in late summer to early fall in a cold frame. Transplant the seedlings in spring.
Q: How tall can Delphinium Elatum Sunny Skies grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall under ideal growing conditions.
Related Plants
Other popular Delphinium varieties include:
- Delphinium grandiflorum
- Delphinium x belladonna
- Delphinium x cultorum
- Delphinium nudicaule
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/delphinium-elatum-sunny-skies
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a736
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/delphinium/growing-delphinium-plants.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/common-bugs-and-pests-on-delphiniums.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=376
