Larkspur Delphinium 'Bruce'
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Bruce' is characterized by its tall and stately spikes that are densely packed with semi-double flowers. The blooms come in a rich, deep blue hue that is both eye-catching and elegant. This variety often sees flowers adorned with a slightly lighter or white 'bee,' which is a central tuft of stamen-like petals, adding contrast and interest to the floral display. The foliage is a lush, deep green that forms a clump at the base of the plant, setting off the striking color of the blooms. The leaves themselves have a textured, lobed, or dissected appearance that complements the overall feathery aspect of the plant. Delphinium 'Bruce' has an upright growth habit with strong, sturdy stems that make it an ideal choice for adding vertical interest to garden borders or as a dramatic backdrop in flower beds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Bruce'.
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur is highly toxic to humans if ingested. The plant, including seeds and leaves, contains alkaloids such as delphinine, which can lead to severe digestive upset, nervous excitement, and depression of the central nervous system. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and muscle weakness. Severe cases may result in respiratory paralysis and cardiac failure, which can be fatal.
To pets
Larkspur is also highly toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principles, mainly alkaloids, affect the neuromuscular junctions and can lead to symptoms such as drooling, nausea, vomiting, muscle tremors, stiffness, convulsions, and even death from respiratory and cardiac paralysis if a significant amount of the plant is ingested. Prompt veterinary attention is crucial to manage poisoning in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
Northern Hemisphere
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Delphinium 'Bruce' is known to attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its tall spikes of vibrant blue-purple flowers, this delphinium adds color and vertical interest to garden landscapes.
- Cut Flowers: The stems and blooms make for excellent cut flowers, bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
- Seasonal Interest: Delphinium 'Bruce' provides a burst of color in early to mid-summer when many other plants have not yet peaked.
- Companion Planting: Can be paired with other perennials in a border or bed to create a layered garden design.
- Cottage Garden Style: Perfect for a traditional cottage garden look, it complements other classic cottage garden plants.
- Garden Focal Point: Its height and striking color can serve as a focal point or backdrop for lower-growing plants in a garden design.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides shelter and food sources for wildlife, contributing to the local ecosystem's health.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The tall and sturdy stalks of the Delphinium can be used as natural stakes for supporting other plants in the garden.
- Fine fibers from the stems of the Delphinium can be gathered and experimented with as a potential material for crafting homemade paper.
- Because of its height and structure, the Delphinium may serve as a natural trellis for climbing vines that need support.
- When dried properly, the Delphinium can create attractive arrangements for dried flower crafts and displays.
- The dried petals of the Delphinium can be incorporated into potpourri mixes to add color and volume.
- Delphinium can be used as a blueprint for botanical illustration classes, teaching students how to capture the complex structure of flowers.
- The seeds of the Delphinium can be used in seed art projects due to their distinctive shape and size.
- By compressing the stalks, Delphinium could potentially be utilized in the making of lightweight biodegradable planting pots or containers.
- Delphinium makes for an intriguing photograph subject for those specializing in plant and flower photography due to its vibrant color and striking presence.
- Fallen Delphinium petals can be scattered on the paths of gardens or between paving stones, adding color and a whimsical touch to landscape design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiLarkspur is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLarkspur is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Openness to New Experiences: Delphiniums symbolize an invitation to take risks and embrace change, reflecting the flower's own growth towards the sky.
- Protection: In ancient times, delphiniums were believed to ward off negative spirits and scorpions; they offer a sense of safety and security.
- Arrogance and Pride: The towering stature of delphiniums sometimes represents a sense of superiority or bold self-confidence.
- Lightness and Levity: With their airy blooms, delphiniums can be associated with a carefree attitude and a sense of joyfulness.
- Big-Heartedness: The lush, abundant flowers of the delphinium signify a generous spirit and a willingness to give.
- Fun: The playful nature of delphiniums' colors and shapes evoke a feeling of enjoyment and a light-hearted vibe.
- Youthful Folly: Sometimes, delphiniums are symbolic of immature behavior, perhaps due to their association with Greek mythology and young lads transforming into dolphins.
- Wellbeing and Health: Delphiniums can signify good health, drawing on the plant's historical use in traditional medicines.
WaterLarkspur (Delphinium 'Bruce') should be kept consistently moist, so water it whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. Each watering should thoroughly saturate the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches, and for a typical garden setting, that's roughly equivalent to 1 gallon per plant. Ensure that the water penetrates the soil without runoff, and avoid overhead watering to prevent disease, focusing on the base of the plant instead. During hot or windy weather, you may need to water more frequently, and less often during rainy seasons.
LightLarkspur thrives in full sun, so place Delphinium 'Bruce' in a location where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid overly shaded spots since insufficient light can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms. If grown in a particularly hot climate, providing afternoon shade can protect the larkspur from intense heat.
TemperatureLarkspur enjoys cool to moderate temperatures and can typically tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit but not much lower without protection. The ideal temperature range for Delphinium 'Bruce' is between 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can survive brief periods above this range, prolonged heat can be stressful to the plant.
PruningPrune Larkspur to encourage healthy growth, improve air circulation, and enhance its appearance. Deadheading spent flowers of Delphinium 'Bruce' throughout the blooming season can promote additional blooming. After the first flush of blooms, cut back the flower stalks to the base to encourage a second bloom. Complete pruning of the plant is best done in early spring or after the first killing frost in the fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Bruce' prefers a well-draining soil mix enriched with organic matter. Optimal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of loam, peat, and compost with a good amount of perlite or sand for drainage constitutes the best soil mixture for this plant.
RepottingLarkspur 'Bruce' typically does not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2 to 3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time to repot this perennial for minimal stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Bruce' will thrive in an average garden environment with normal humidity levels. They do not have specific humidity requirements but they do benefit from occasional misting if the air is particularly dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, regular watering.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleDelphinium 'Bruce', commonly known as Larkspur, initiates its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring when soil temperatures are favorable. The seedling develops several leaves and a strong root system, forming a basal rosette which persists through the growing season. As the plant matures, it sends up tall flowering spikes typically in early summer, which are adorned with a series of colorful blooms that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules, and once mature, the capsules release seeds for the next generation. In preparation for winter, perennial varieties of Larkspur die back to the ground after flowering, with the root system entering a period of dormancy. The cycle begins anew with the return of warmer weather, as new growth emerges from the crown of the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Larkspur, specifically the Delphinium 'Bruce', is through seed sowing. The ideal time for sowing seeds is in late winter to early spring. You begin by sprinkling the seeds on the surface of a well-draining soil mix in a container, leaving them uncovered as they require light to germinate. The container should then be placed in a warm area with temperatures around 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius), ensuring it has moderate light exposure. The soil must be kept moist, but not waterlogged, until germination which typically occurs in 14 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have grown enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their final growing positions after the risk of frost has passed. Larkspur thrives in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
