Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered (Larkspur) — herbaceous perennial

Overview

Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Delphinium, part of the Ranunculaceae family. Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and rich soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and cuts.

About

Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered is an herbaceous perennial in the Ranunculaceae grown for tall spikes bearing large flowers. It flowers from June to August. Give plants full sun or partial shade in rich, well‑drained soil kept moist and place where they are sheltered from strong winds; they are classed H5 (hardy). All parts are toxic, so site away from locations accessible to children or livestock.

About the genus

Delphinium is a genus of about 300 species of annual and perennial flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae, native throughout the Northern Hemisphere and also on the high mountains of tropical Africa. The genus was erected by Carl Linnaeus.

Wikipedia contributors, "Delphinium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Delphinium

In the garden

Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered belong to the genus Delphinium in the buttercup family and are cultivated types valued for their enlarged blooms on erect flower spikes. Garden forms group the visual impact of Delphinium into plants grown for borders and for cutting, where the size of individual flowers is a primary feature. Give plants full sun or partial shade and a sheltered position to reduce wind damage to the stems. They prefer rich, well‑drained soil held consistently moist and a neutral to slightly acidic pH; in UK terms their H5 rating means they are hardy in most gardens but benefit from protection in exposed sites. Positioning on the middle or rear of a mixed border lets the flower spikes rise above lower neighbours and provides room for air to circulate around the stems. Take care with handling because all parts are toxic; avoid composting large quantities of trimmings where animals might access them. Use stems for cutting when the lower florets have opened to best display the large blooms indoors.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Delphinium

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, rich
Soil pH: neutral, slightly acidic
Soil moisture: moist
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: herbaceous perennial
Suggested uses: borders, cuts
Toxicity: toxic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered

Cultivation: Plant in spring or autumn in fertile, well-drained soil. Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage. Avoid waterlogging.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth and possible rebloom.
Propagation: seed,division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered?

Plant in spring or autumn in fertile, well-drained soil. Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage. Avoid waterlogging.

Where is the best place to plant Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered?

Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered need?

Delphinium Hybrids, Large Flowered grows best in well-drained and rich soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.