Black Knight Delphinium Delphinium Black Knight Group
ABOUT
Delphinium Black Knight Group presents a striking display with its deep, dark purple to almost black flowers. Each blossom is densely packed on a tall spike, and they feature prominent, contrasting white or light-colored bees, which is a term used to describe the central part of the flower where the stamens and pistil are located. The flower spikes branch and are covered in multiple blooms that are semi-doubles to doubles, offering a lush and velvety texture visually. The plant itself has a bushy habit, with deeply divided, dark green leaves that are palmately lobed. The foliage provides a beautiful contrast to the dramatic spikes of flowers that rise above it during the blooming period. It is known for its majestic and regal appearance, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a bold statement to their landscapes. Delphinium Black Knight Group brings a vertical element to gardens and adds a touch of classic cottage charm with its traditional flower form.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Black Knight Delphinium, Dark Blue Delphinium, Black Knight Larkspur.
Common names
Delphinium Black Knight Group
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, particularly the Delphinium Black Knight Group, contains toxic alkaloids such as delphinine, which are poisonous to humans. If any part of the plant is ingested, symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and seizures. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure and death. Handling the plant can also cause skin irritation.
To pets
Larkspur is toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The Delphinium Black Knight Group contains dangerous alkaloids that can cause symptoms such as drooling, abdominal pain, excessive thirst, weakness, paralysis, and seizures upon ingestion. In severe cases, it can lead to cardiac failure and potentially death if not treated promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Dark blue
Height
5 feet (1.5 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: They are widely appreciated for their tall spikes of deep blue to purple flowers, which add dramatic height and color to garden borders.
- Attract Pollinators: The flowers produce nectar that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Cut Flowers: Delphiniums are excellent for cutting gardens as their long stems and vibrant flowers make striking cut flower arrangements.
- Vertical Interest: Their tall growth habit provides vertical interest in garden design, creating layers and depth in the landscape.
- Seasonal Color: They primarily bloom in early summer, offering a burst of color during this season and sometimes again in late summer or early fall if deadheaded.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The striking deep blue to purple flowers of the Delphinium can serve as a dramatic backdrop or focal point in floral photography.
- Fabric Dyeing: The blossoms of the Delphinium may be used to create natural dyes for textile art, imparting shades of blue.
- Crafts: Dried Delphinium flowers can be integrated into potpourri mixes or used in crafting homemade candles or soap for decorative purposes.
- Educational Tool: This plant can be used to teach botany and horticulture students about plant structure and pollination strategies.
- Habitat Support: Delphiniums provide nectar for butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, supporting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
- Ink Production: The vibrant petals may be crushed and processed to produce inks for art or calligraphy with a unique hue.
- Dramatic Landscaping: Delphinium's height and color make a bold statement in garden design, especially in mass plantings or as a backdrop for lower-growing plants.
- Garden Borders: The height and formality of Delphinium blooms can be used to create visual borders or separation within garden spaces.
- Language of Flowers: Historically, Delphiniums have been used to communicate heartfelt emotions and could still serve as a means to convey a message through the language of flowers.
- Seed Harvesting: Delphinium seeds can be collected and traded among gardening enthusiasts who enjoy growing new varieties from seed.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection - The Delphinium Black Knight Group, commonly known as the Larkspur, is often associated with protection due to its historical use in warding off scorpions and other venomous creatures.
- Ardent Attachment - Giving someone larkspurs can signify a strong bond of love, symbolizing an open heart and ardent attachment to the recipient.
- Lightness and Levity - The larkspur's lofty spikes and delicate flowers can evoke feelings of lightness and a carefree attitude, reminiscent of the joy and laughter of youth.
- Health and Wellness - In traditional symbolism, larkspurs are often associated with good health, perhaps stemming from their use in folk medicine and their bright, cheerful blooms.
- New Opportunities - The larkspur is known to symbolize new opportunities and positive change, encouraging one to embrace new chapters in life with enthusiasm and confidence.
WaterLarkspur, commonly known as Delphinium 'Black Knight Group', requires regular watering to maintain moist soil, especially during the growing season. Depending on the climate and weather conditions, watering thoroughly once a week with about one to two gallons of water should suffice. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged by allowing it to dry slightly between waterings. During the hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler weather, water less often. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering.
LightLarkspurs like Delphinium 'Black Knight Group' thrive in full sunlight. They perform best when they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place them in a spot where they are exposed to the early morning sun which is less intense, as harsh afternoon sun in hot climates may stress the plant.
TemperatureLarkspurs, such as the Delphinium 'Black Knight Group', prefer moderate temperatures and can typically withstand a temperature range from 45°F to 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40°F but their ideal growing condition lies within 50°F to 70°F. Exposure to temperatures above 80°F may cause the plant to struggle and possibly go dormant.
PruningPrune Larkspur, or Delphinium 'Black Knight Group', to promote healthy growth and improve air circulation. Cut back spent flower stalks to the base of the plant to encourage a possible second blooming. Pruning should be done after the first flush of flowers in mid to late summer. Regular deadheading encourages more blooms and prevents the plant from self-seeding excessively.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur, commonly known as Delphinium 'Black Knight', thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A soil pH range from 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal. The best soil mix can be made by combining two parts loam, one part peat or compost, and one part sand or perlite to ensure good drainage.
RepottingLarkspurs typically do not need frequent repotting as they are perennial plants. However, if grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current pot is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingLarkspurs require moderate humidity levels. They do not have specific humidity requirements but prefer conditions that are not excessively dry or humid.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, avoid overheating, don’t wet foliage.
Outdoor
Full sun, protect from strong wind, moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Delphinium Black Knight Group, commonly known as Larkspur, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in early spring or late winter, germinates in moist, well-drained soil. Seedlings emerge and mature into vegetative plants with deeply lobed leaves and strong stems, preparing for the flowering stage. By early to mid-summer, the Larkspur reaches its blooming phase, producing tall spikes of deep blue to purple flowers with a black bee, attracting pollinators. After pollination, flowers develop into follicles containing numerous small seeds. As autumn approaches, Larkspur completes its annual life cycle by setting seed, then the plant dies back as the colder weather sets in. The seeds can overwinter and germinate the following spring, continuing the plant's life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Delphinium 'Black Knight Group', commonly known as Larkspur, is by seed. Ideally, seeds should be sown in late winter to early spring. To begin, seeds are scattered on the surface of a well-draining, seed-starting mix in a container. They require light to germinate, so they should not be covered with soil, but lightly pressed into the surface. The container needs to be kept at a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) and the soil should remain moist but not soggy. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved outdoors once the threat of frost has passed.
