Delphinium (Pacific Hybrids)
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Tried and True Recommended by 4 Professionals
Common Name: larkspur
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Ranunculaceae
Zone: 3 to 7
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Spread: 2 to 3 feet
Bloom Time: June to July
Bloom Color: Blue, Pink, Purple, White
Bloom Description: Blue, white, pink, violet
Sun: Full sun
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Wildlife: Attracts Butterflies
Tolerates: Deer
Uses: Cut Flower, Suitable as Annual

Culture

Best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Needs protection from strong winds. Remove spent flower spikes to encourage additional bloom. Dislikes the hot and humid summer climate in the St. Louis area. Pacific hybrids may be grown from seed and may self-seed in the garden. These are short-lived perennials that are grown in many areas today as annuals or biennials.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Pacific hybrid delphiniums are long-stemmed perennials that typically grow to 4-6’ tall. They are sold in commerce under individual single-color cultivar names or as multi-color mixes that produce a variety of colors consisting primarily of blue, white, pink and violet. In late spring to early summer, Pacific hybrids produce 3-inch double flowers densely packed into terminal spikes (12-18” long). Flower color variations will occur, particularly when plants are grown from seed.

Problems

Delphiniums are generally susceptible to powdery mildew, botritis blight, leaf spots and crown rot. Pacific hybrids reportedly have good resistance to powdery mildew. Slugs and snails are sometimes visitors. Taller plants need support. Best performance is in climates with cool summers.

Garden Uses

Cottage gardens. Borders. Best in groupings or massed.

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