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Description
Delphinium Uliginosum, commonly known as bog larkspur, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to the wetlands and meadows of North America and Europe. The plant produces tall spikes of blue to purplish-blue flowers in the summer. The flowers have a distinctive spur shape and are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
Delphinium Uliginosum grows up to 1.5 meters tall and 0.6 meters wide. Its leaves are deeply lobed, green, and palmate-shaped. The flowers are arranged in tall spikes, and each spike can have up to 50 flowers. The flowers are blue to purplish-blue and have a spur-like shape. The plant blooms in the summer and produces fruits that are dry, brown, and contain numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Delphinium Uliginosum prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Delphinium Uliginosum in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Soil
Plant Delphinium Uliginosum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight
Delphinium Uliginosum prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide the plant with some afternoon shade to prevent the flowers from fading.
Hardiness Zones
Delphinium Uliginosum is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delphinium Uliginosum is susceptible to powdery mildew, crown rot, and slugs. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and plant the delphinium in a well-ventilated area. To prevent crown rot, plant the delphinium in well-draining soil. To prevent slugs, handpick them or use slug baits.
Habitat
Delphinium Uliginosum is native to the wetlands and meadows of North America and Europe. The plant prefers moist soil and can be found growing near streams, ponds, and bogs.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Delphinium Uliginosum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Delphinium Uliginosum is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingestion of the plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Q: Can Delphinium Uliginosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Delphinium Uliginosum can be grown in containers. Use a large container with well-draining soil, and provide the plant with regular water and fertilization.
Q: How often should I divide Delphinium Uliginosum?
A: Divide Delphinium Uliginosum every 3-4 years in the spring or fall. The plant can become crowded and produce fewer flowers if left undivided for too long.
Q: How do I deadhead Delphinium Uliginosum?
A: Deadhead Delphinium Uliginosum by cutting back the spent flower spikes to the base of the plant. This will promote more flower production and prevent self-seeding.
Related Plants
- Delphinium elatum
- Delphinium grandiflorum
- Delphinium nudicaule
- Delphinium x belladonna
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Delphinium uliginosum. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e741
- RHS. (n.d.). Delphinium uliginosum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9167/Delphinium-uliginosum/Details
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (n.d.). Delphinium uliginosum. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/delphinium-uliginosum-bog-larkspur/
