Candle larkspur - Delphinium elatum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Candle larkspur

Also known as: Bee larkspur, Alpine delphinium

The Delphinium elatum is a beautiful ornamental plant, which includes cultivars 'Magic Fountains', 'Dwarf Pacific', 'New Millennium', 'Pacific giant', and 6 varieties of 'Aurora'. It was first referred to as its scientific name by the Greek botanist and physician Pedanius Dioscorides.

Scientific classification

Species

Candle larkspur (Delphinium elatum)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Late summer

Harvest Time

70 cm to 1.3 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Blue, White, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Blue

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Candle larkspur

Distribution of Candle larkspur

Distribution Map

Candle larkspur is native to Eurasia, from Spain through much of Russia. Its native habitat is woodland clearings, edges, and river valleys. It has been introduced in Canada, and some cultivars are grown in the UK and the United States.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassy slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Candle larkspur (Delphinium elatum) is a highly popular garden ornamental perennial that is prized for its tall spikes of showy summer flowers. These bright flowers are particularly regarding when placed in the flower beds and borders of informal and cottage gardens. Contrast them with plantings of hollyhock, sunflowers, or goat's beard.

Symbolism

Lightness, fun, levity, joy

Name Story

Candle larkspur: The name Delphinium or larkspur is derived from the Greek version of the genus name meaning "dolphin". The name is inspired by the shape of the gland in the flowers that secretes nectar. Not only that the flowers are shaped in a special way, but the scent it produces is also unique as well. It produces a candle-like scent, so it is called candle larkspur.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Candle larkspur, including the following common varieties :

Candle larkspur 'Magic Fountain Sky Blue'Candle larkspur 'Giotto'Candle larkspur 'Pagan Purples'Candle larkspur 'Purple Passion'Candle larkspur 'Lilian Bassett'Candle larkspur 'Mighty Atom'Candle larkspur 'Lord Butler'Candle larkspur 'Blue Dawn'Candle larkspur 'Langdon's Royal Flush'Candle larkspur 'Guardian Lavender'Candle larkspur 'Jill Curley'Candle larkspur 'Pink Punch'Candle larkspur 'Walton Gemstone'Candle larkspur 'Sunny Skies'Candle larkspur 'Centurion White'Candle larkspur 'Blue Lace'Candle larkspur 'Guardian Blue'Candle larkspur 'Black Eyed Angels'

Toxicity

Candle larkspur is highly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts of the plant are dangerous, especially when young. Ingestion can cause severe digestive, cardiovascular, and neurological issues, leading to potentially fatal outcomes. Direct contact can irritate the skin. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets suspected of consuming candle larkspur to prevent severe health repercussions.

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Quickly Identify Candle larkspur

Tall spikes with deeply saturated blue flowers and prominent spurs.

Leaves are blue-green, deeply lobed with elegant pointed segments.

Upright, sturdy stem ranging from green to faint purple, hollow and straight.

Flowers arranged in central racemes, blue-violet, 1-2 inches in diameter.

Distinctive palmate leaf form, hand-like appearance with 5-7 lobed segments.

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Care Guide for Candle larkspur

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from mountainous regions, candle larkspur prefers consistent moisture and cool conditions. It thrives with regular watering every week, showing moderate drought tolerance. Typically grown outdoors, candle larkspur benefits from natural rainfall, which supports its growth cycle and water intake.

Fertilize: Candle larkspur thrives with regular fertilization, using balanced nutrition in spring and high phosphorus before flowering. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks, avoiding over-fertilization. Reduce feeding in dormant seasons, wear gloves for safety, and adjust based on growth stages to support health and beauty.

Pruning: Candle larkspur flourishes with regular pruning, ideally in early to late spring. Focus on dead or weak stems and remove spent blooms to ensure vigorous growth and continuous flowering. Pruning enhances air circulation, prevents mildew, and directs energy to root development, supporting overall vitality.

Propagation: Best propagated in spring, candle larkspur requires moderate skill for sowing. Successful propagation is marked by young seedlings. Use well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture for optimal germination.

Repotting: Repot candle larkspur every 2-3 years in spring to support its growth and refresh soil. Use a deep pot for the extensive root system. After repotting, maintain steady moisture while avoiding waterlogging to ensure healthy development.

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Images of Candle larkspur

Distribution of Candle larkspur

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Candle larkspur

Care Guide for Candle larkspur

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