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Description
Delphinium Nuttallianum, commonly known as Nuttall’s delphinium, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the buttercup family. It is a perennial herb that can reach up to 2 meters in height. It has a thick, sturdy stem that is covered with fine hair and has numerous branches near the top. The leaves are deeply cut and lobed, giving it a fern-like appearance. The flowers are blue, purple, or white, and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. Each flower has five petal-like sepals and a spur that is longer than the sepals. It blooms from May to September and is pollinated by bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
Delphinium Nuttallianum is a tall, sturdy plant with deeply cut and lobed leaves that give it a fern-like appearance. The flowers are blue, purple, or white and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. Each flower has five petal-like sepals and a spur that is longer than the sepals. It blooms from May to September and is pollinated by bees and butterflies. It can reach up to 2 meters in height.
Care Guide
Delphinium Nuttallianum requires well-draining soil and regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers full sun or partial shade and needs to be fertilized regularly with a balanced fertilizer. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and can tolerate cold temperatures. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. Pruning should be done in the fall or early spring to encourage new growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delphinium Nuttallianum is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Aphids and spider mites can cause damage to the leaves and flowers, and powdery mildew can develop in humid conditions. Botrytis blight and crown rot can also be a problem if the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
Delphinium Nuttallianum is native to western North America, where it can be found in meadows, open woods, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Delphinium Nuttallianum toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Delphinium Nuttallianum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as there is enough space for the roots to grow.
Q: How often should Delphinium Nuttallianum be fertilized?
A: It should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Delphinium Nuttallianum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is pollinated by bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Delphinium elatum
- Delphinium grandiflorum
- Delphinium ajacis
- Delphinium cardinale
- Delphinium tricorne
References
- “Delphinium Nuttallianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 13 July 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276989
- “Nuttall’s Delphinium.” USDA NRCS National Plant Data Center. Accessed 13 July 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DENU6
- “Delphinium Nuttallianum.” Washington Native Plant Society. Accessed 13 July 2021. https://www.wnps.org/plants/delphinium-nuttallianum.html
