Larkspur Delphinium 'Blue Lace'
ABOUT
The Delphinium 'Blue Lace' exhibits a breathtaking vision of beauty typical to the delphinium genus, known for its grace in garden displays. This particular cultivar showcases a splendid array of gentle blue hues, reminiscent of the serene sky on a clear summer day. Each flower is intricately detailed, sporting a lacy appearance that gives the 'Blue Lace' its descriptive name. The flowers are densely packed in spiked formations known as racemes, creating an eye-catching vertical display of color and form. What's particularly enchanting about this plant is the subtle gradations of blue which can vary from a pale, almost sky-blue to richer, deeper shades, all interspersed with delicate white 'bees' or centers that draw attention to their complex structure. The foliage of the Delphinium 'Blue Lace' is also quite attractive, with leaves that are deeply lobed and possess a rich green color, creating a lush backdrop that makes the blue flowers stand out even more. The contrast between the verdant leaves and the cool blue tones of the blossoms creates a refreshing and elegant display. When in full bloom, this cultivar turns heads and becomes a standout in any garden composition, evoking a sense of peace and natural splendor.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Larkspur, Blue Lace Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Blue Lace'
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, specifically Delphinium 'Blue Lace', is poisonous if ingested. All parts of the plant contain various toxic alkaloids which can impact the nervous system. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, and muscle tremors. In severe cases, respiratory paralysis and cardiac failure can occur, which may be fatal. Care should be taken to prevent accidental ingestion and to seek medical attention immediately if poisoning is suspected.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets, presenting similar risks as it does to humans. If pets consume any part of the plant, they may exhibit symptoms such as drooling, abdominal pain, frequent bowel movements, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, and potentially seizures. In severe instances, respiratory distress or cardiac failure is possible, which can be life-threatening. Pet owners should be cautious to keep larkspur out of reach of their animals and consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Delphinium 'Blue Lace' is known for its striking blue flowers, which can add color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: The plant is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, which is important for the health of your garden and the environment.
- Tall Structure: It provides vertical interest in garden beds or borders, with its tall spikes that can be used to create depth and layers in planting designs.
- Cut Flowers: The long stems and beautiful blooms make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, adding elegance to any bouquet.
- Seasonal Interest: Delphiniums bloom during the summer months, providing seasonal color and interest in the garden when many other plants may not be at their peak.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden photography – The striking blue blooms of the Delphinium serve as an excellent subject for professional and amateur garden photographers, enhancing the visual appeal of horticultural photo collections.
- Temporary tattoos – Pressing the petals of the Delphinium against the skin with a little bit of water can create a beautiful, albeit temporary, blue tattoo design.
- Culinary decoration – While not widely known for its edibility, the intense blue petals of the Delphinium can be used to adorn cakes and desserts for special occasions.
- Natural fabric dye – The blooms of the Delphinium can be used in natural dye processes to impart a soft blue hue to textiles, although it may not be colorfast.
- Artistic pigments – Dry and crush the petals of the Delphinium to create a natural pigment for artistic purposes, such as eco-friendly watercolor paints.
- Botanical sachets – Dried Delphinium flowers can be included in potpourri or botanical sachets to add fragrance and a pop of color to drawers and linen closets.
- Floral crafts – The stems and flowers of the Delphinium can be dried and used in various floral crafts, including wreaths and dried flower arrangements.
- Educational tool – The Delphinium can be used in botany classes to teach students about plant biology and the specific growth requirements of perennials.
- Greeting card embellishments – Pressed Delphinium flowers can be used to decorate hand-made greeting cards, providing a unique, three-dimensional element to paper crafts.
- Bookmark creation – Laminating pressed Delphinium flowers can create unique and personal bookmarks, ideal for gifts or as keepsakes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Openness to New Experiences: Delphinium, with its skyward pointing blooms, often signifies a willingness to embrace the possibilities that life brings.
- Protection: Some cultures believe that delphiniums offer protection from dangers and can ward off negative energies.
- Arbitrary Affection: Gifting delphiniums, especially the 'Blue Lace' variety, might indicate a light-hearted flirtation or attachment without deep commitment.
- Good Fortune: Their striking presence is sometimes associated with bringing good fortune to the recipient.
- Remembrance: Delphiniums are also used to honor the memory of loved ones who have passed, signifying remembrance and keeping alive their spirit.
- Heavenly Aspirations: The plant's tall and spire-like blooms reaching for the sky symbolize striving towards achieving one’s goals and reaching new heights.
WaterLarkspur 'Blue Lace' should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water which is approximately 0.6 gallons for an average-sized plant. During particularly hot or dry spells, it may need additional water. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as larkspur dislikes overly wet conditions. The best method is to water at the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves to reduce the risk of disease. It is vital to maintain consistent moisture levels, especially during the blooming period for optimal growth and flowering.
LightLarkspur 'Blue Lace' thrives best in full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Place it in a location where it can receive unfiltered sunlight through most of the day for best growth and flower production. However, in regions with very hot summers, it may benefit from light afternoon shade to prevent stress.
TemperatureLarkspur 'Blue Lace' prefers cooler temperatures and generally does well in a range with a minimum of around 40 degrees Fahrenheit to a maximum of about 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive brief periods of colder frost down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental. The ideal temperature conditions for this plant would be between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for vigorous growth and flowering.
PruningPruning Larkspur 'Blue Lace' is essential to promote vigorous growth and maintain an attractive shape. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage a second bloom. Cut back the foliage to the ground level at the end of the growing season, which is typically in late fall. Additionally, thinning out some of the plant's stems in the spring can improve air circulation and reduce the chance of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Blue Lace' requires well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A mix of loam, peat, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal. The best pH for this plant should be slightly alkaline, around 7.0 to 7.5.
RepottingLarkspur 'Blue Lace', a perennial, does not typically require frequent repotting. Repot it only when it outgrows its container or every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Blue Lace' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to lower humidity environments typical of outdoor garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use well-draining soil, place in a sunny spot.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Delphinium 'Blue Lace', commonly known as Larkspur, begins with seed germination, which occurs in early spring in well-draining soil and with ample sunlight. After germination, the seedlings grow into young plants with a rosette of basal leaves, and as temperatures warm, the plant undergoes vegetative growth, developing tall spikes with deeply lobed leaves. During the flowering stage in late spring to early summer, 'Blue Lace' produces showy, blue-purple flowers on long spikes that are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into small fruit containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. In the autumn, the plant begins to die back, with the above-ground foliage wilting and the plant entering dormancy. For many in colder climates, Larkspur is treated as an annual, although it can be a short-lived perennial that re-emerges from its rootstock if the conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Delphinium 'Blue Lace', commonly known as Larkspur, is most effectively propagated through seed sowing. The optimal time to sow Delphinium seeds is during late winter to early spring, ensuring conditions are cool which the seeds prefer. Begin by sowing the tiny seeds on the surface of a well-draining, pre-moistened seed starting mix, pressing them gently into the soil but not covering them as they require light to germinate. Placing the seed container in a bright area with indirect light and maintaining a soil temperature of about 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius) will encourage germination, which typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings have grown sufficiently and the danger of frost has passed, they can be transplanted into the garden, spacing them 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 centimeters) apart to give each plant enough room to grow.
