Larkspur Delphinium 'Atholl'
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Atholl' is a strikingly beautiful perennial garden plant that is known for its vibrant colors and regal presence in a flowerbed. It features tall spikes of densely packed flowers, which can vary in color from a rich, deep blue to a purple hue. The individual blooms are characterized by their intricate structure, with each flower having five petal-like sepals that spread outwards and upwards, creating a star-like shape. In the center of these sepals, smaller, more delicate petals form a protective cup around the stamen and pistil, which are the reproductive parts of the flower. The foliage of Delphinium 'Atholl' is comprised of deeply lobed leaves that are arranged in a bushy formation near the base of the plant. These leaves are typically a bright, fresh green color, providing a lush backdrop for the glorious floral displays above. With every season, this plant can produce multiple flower spikes, which add a vertical accent to gardens and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The overall impression of Delphinium 'Atholl' is one of elegance and dramatic flair, making it a favorite among gardeners looking to add height and color to their outdoor spaces. Despite its delicate appearance, the plant is relatively hardy and can become a centerpiece when grouped with other flowering perennials or set against a backdrop of evergreen shrubbery.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Atholl'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Delphinium, specifically the Delphinium 'Atholl', is toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids, including the seeds. If ingested, it can cause severe digestive disturbances, muscular spasms, paralysis of the respiratory system, and in extreme cases, can be fatal. Symptoms can also include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a burning sensation in the mouth.
To pets
The Delphinium, is also toxic to pets. Dogs, cats, and horses, among other animals, can suffer from the effects of delphinium poisoning. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to drooling, nausea, vomiting, severe gastrointestinal upset, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, paralysis, convulsions, and potentially fatal respiratory failure. Prompt veterinary care is required if a pet consumes any part of a delphinium plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Delphinium 'Atholl' is known for its tall spikes of vibrant blue flowers, which add a striking vertical element to garden borders and floral arrangements.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of the Delphinium 'Atholl', commonly known as larkspur, attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Seasonal Color: Larkspurs bloom in late spring to early summer, providing a splash of color when many other plants are just beginning to grow.
- Back of Border Plant: With its tall stature, Delphinium 'Atholl' is perfect for the back of flower beds where it can rise above lower-growing plants without obstructing them.
- Cottage Garden Charm: The larkspur contributes to the classic cottage garden look with its rustic charm and vivid blooms.
- Vertical Accent: The vertical growth habit makes it an excellent choice for adding height and structure to garden designs.
- Color Variety: While Delphinium 'Atholl' is celebrated for its blue flowers, the plant comes in a range of hues, offering versatility in garden color schemes.
- Cut Flowers: The long stems and showy blooms are well-suited for cut flower arrangements, providing material for indoor decoration.
- Companion Planting: Delphinium 'Atholl' pairs well with other perennials, such as roses and peonies, enhancing overall garden aesthetics.
- Seasonal Interest: After blooming, the seed pods and foliage of larkspur continue to provide visual interest in the garden during late summer and fall.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Delphinium can serve as a natural fabric dye, providing a range of blue hues characteristic of its flowers.
- These plants are often used in educational settings for plant biology studies due to their distinct growth patterns and flower structures.
- Delphinium petals can be used in art projects for making natural pigments or as a component in pressed flower crafts.
- These flowers can be incorporated into biodegradable confetti for eco-friendly celebrations, as they decompose without harming the environment.
- Gardeners may plant Delphinium among vegetables to attract pollinators, thereby improving the pollination of crops.
- Insect photographers commonly use Delphiniums because their vibrant flowers are excellent for attracting a variety of insects, ideal for photography.
- Delphiniums can be used as companion plants in rose gardens to create vertical visual interest and contrast in height and color.
- The dried stems of Delphinium can be woven into wreaths and other decorative items for rustic crafts.
- These plants can play a role in ceremonies and traditions, like "something blue" in weddings, due to their striking blue flowers.
- Delphinium seeds can be used in seed art or mosaics for creating intricate patterns and pictures.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Openness to New Experiences: The Delphinium is commonly associated with an invitation to take on new opportunities and challenges.
- Protection: In some cultures, Delphiniums are believed to ward off negative spirits and provide a sense of protection.
- Ardent Attachment: Giving someone Delphiniums can signify a strong bond of love and a deep-seated attachment.
- Big-heartedness: The expansive blooms of the Delphinium symbolize a generosity of spirit and kindness.
- Levity: With its playful colors and shapes, the Delphinium can represent lightness and a sense of humor.
- Heavenly Aspirations: The towering stature of the Delphinium signifies reaching towards the sky and is often associated with celestial thoughts.
WaterThe Larkspur requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It's best to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Provide a deep watering to saturate the root zone, which typically means applying about 1 inch of water. This usually translates to about 0.6 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Aim to water the Larkspur once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions, but be cautious not to over-water as this plant does not tolerate soggy soil.
LightLarkspurs prefer full sun to thrive, which means they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for a Delphinium 'Atholl' is in an area that gets ample morning sunlight and some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to prevent stress from excessive heat.
TemperatureLarkspurs do best in cooler climates, with optimal growth temperatures ranging between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand short periods of colder weather down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit but are generally not tolerant of high heat, with temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit being potentially harmful to the plant.
PruningPruning Larkspurs involves deadheading spent flowers to promote further blooming and cutting back stalks in late summer to maintain plant health. It's usually done after the first flush of blooms fade, which encourages a second bloom period. Prune again at the end of the growing season, cutting back the foliage after the first frost to prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Atholl' thrives best in a well-drained soil mix with plenty of organic matter such as compost or aged manure. The pH should be slightly alkaline, ranging between 6.7 and 7.3. A mix of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite can provide the ideal growing conditions, promoting robust growth and flowering.
RepottingLarkspur 'Atholl' typically does not need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the old one as these plants prefer to be somewhat root-bound.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Atholl' prefers moderate humidity levels; however, as it is mainly grown outdoors, ambient humidity is often sufficient. Protection from strong winds helps maintain adequate humidity around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and moist soil.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Delphinium 'Atholl', also known as Larkspur, begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown in well-drained soil and exposed to cool temperatures, germinates to produce small seedlings. These seedlings grow into juvenile plants with characteristic divided leaves and then mature into flowering plants displaying tall spikes of purple or blue flowers commonly seen in gardens during late spring to early summer. After pollination, often by bees and butterflies attracted to the showy blooms, the flowers develop into fruit which contains numerous small seeds. Once mature, these seeds are dispersed by wind or, if deadheaded, can be collected by gardeners for future propagation. In the fall, the plant's aerial parts die back with the onset of colder weather, leaving the root system dormant through the winter. The plant resumes growth from its overwintering roots or basal growth points when conditions become favorable in the spring, thus completing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Delphinium 'Atholl', commonly known as larkspur, is a garden favorite that's often propagated during its dormant period, usually in late winter to early spring. The most popular method of propagation is by seed. To propagate delphiniums by seed, begin by sowing the seeds thinly onto the surface of a well-drained seed starting mix in trays or pots. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should not be covered, but gently pressed into the soil. The containers should be kept at a temperature of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius) and maintain a moist environment without over-watering. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots or into the garden, making sure they are well-spaced to accommodate for their mature size.
