Delphinium 'King Arthur' — Columnar upright

Overview

Delphinium 'King Arthur' is a columnar upright perennial in the genus Delphinium, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Delphinium 'King Arthur' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, cut flowers and cottage gardens.

About

Delphinium 'King Arthur' is a tall perennial with large, deep blue flowers on sturdy stems, often used in borders for vertical interest.

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

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Delphinium

Sunlight: full sun
Soil type: well-drained, fertile
Soil pH: neutral to slightly alkaline
Soil moisture: moist but well-drained
Aspect: south, east
Exposure: sheltered from strong winds
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Delphinium 'King Arthur' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Habit: Columnar upright
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: borders, cut flowers, cottage gardens
Toxicity: toxic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Delphinium 'King Arthur'

Cultivation: Prefers rich, moist soil with good drainage; stake tall flower spikes to prevent flopping; avoid waterlogging.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth; remove dead flower spikes.
Propagation: seed, division, basal cuttings
Pest resistance: Aphids, Slugs, Snails, Leaf miners, Caterpillars
Disease resistance: Powdery mildews, Delphinium black blotch, Crown rot, Viruses

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Delphinium 'King Arthur'?

Prefers rich, moist soil with good drainage; stake tall flower spikes to prevent flopping; avoid waterlogging.

Where is the best place to plant Delphinium 'King Arthur'?

Delphinium 'King Arthur' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered from strong winds positions.

What soil does Delphinium 'King Arthur' need?

Delphinium 'King Arthur' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.