Delphinium
Delphinium elatum
Elatum
About this plant
Delphinium elatum is a tall perennial known for its tall spikes of colorful flowers, often in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. It is popular in gardens for its dramatic vertical presence and is often used in borders or as a cut flower. The plant has deeply lobed leaves and can grow quite tall, making it a striking addition to flower beds.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Delphinium
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Ranunculales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, originally native to Europe and Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -30 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 3-7
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, rich in organic matter
Watering. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again during the growing season to encourage strong growth and flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen which can reduce blooms.
Delphinium elatum is a tall, striking flowering plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It needs regular watering but dislikes waterlogged conditions. It can be prone to fungal diseases if air circulation is poor, so spacing and pruning are important. Overall, it requires moderate care and attention to thrive.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Tall flower spikes with dense clusters of colorful flowers, deeply lobed green foliage.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Delphinium elatum can cause allergic reactions in some people, especially from its pollen and sap. Those sensitive to plant pollen or with skin allergies should handle it carefully, wearing gloves and avoiding direct contact. Symptoms may include skin irritation or sneezing. To reduce exposure, plant it away from frequently used areas and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Common problems include powdery mildew, rust, and crown rot if soil is too wet. Aphids and slugs may also attack the plant. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental garden plant for its tall, colorful flower spikes. Also popular as cut flowers in floral arrangements.
Notes
Support tall flower spikes with stakes to prevent bending or breaking. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Repotting is not typical as it is usually grown outdoors.