Larkspur Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue' (Centurion Series)
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue', a member of the Centurion Series, is a striking perennial known for its vivid color, which, as the name suggests, is a radiant shade of sky blue. It boasts a series of tall, upright spires, also referred to as racemes, which bear a multitude of semi-double to double flowers. Each blossom is composed of delicate petals, forming a rounded shape that, from a distance, gives the impression of a soft, textured mass of color. The center of the flowers, also called the "bee," typically contrasts with the petals and can be lighter or darker, adding depth and dimension to the floral display. The foliage of the Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue' is comprised of deeply lobed, green leaves that provide a lush background and enhance the visual impact of the blue flowers. This plant is particularly admired for its vibrant bloom color and statuesque presence in the garden, often serving as a focal point.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Larkspur, Candle Larkspur, Candle Delphinium.
Common names
Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue'
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, including the Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue', is toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids that can cause serious health problems if ingested. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and paralysis of the respiratory system, which can potentially be fatal. It is essential to avoid ingesting any part of the plant and to seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, as well as horses and livestock. Similar to its effects on humans, ingesting any part of the plant can lead to severe symptoms such as drooling, abdominal pain, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, convulsions, and even respiratory failure, which can be life-threatening. It is critical to prevent pets from accessing any part of the plant and to seek veterinary care promptly if poisoning is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Sky 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- Attracts Pollinators: Delphiniums are known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which can help pollinate plants in your garden.
- Visual Appeal: With its striking sky blue flowers, Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue' adds a vibrant splash of color to any garden landscape.
- Vertical Interest: The tall spires of delphiniums add height and structure, which can be used to create visually appealing garden designs.
- Cottage Garden Charm: Delphiniums are classic cottage garden plants that contribute to a traditional and romantic garden aesthetic.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers of 'Centurion Sky Blue' make excellent cut flowers, adding beauty to indoor arrangements.
- Seasonal Color: Delphiniums typically bloom from late spring to early summer, providing seasonal interest and color when many other plants have yet to flower.
- Garden Focal Points: These tall plants can serve as focal points when placed at intervals within a border or used as a backdrop for lower-growing plants.
- Wildlife Shelter: The dense foliage of delphiniums can provide shelter for small wildlife such as birds and beneficial garden insects.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: Delphinium petals, especially from blue varieties like 'Centurion Sky Blue', can be used to create natural dyes for fabric, giving it a soft blue hue.
- Ink Making: The blue pigment from this Delphinium can be used to create plant-based inks for art or calligraphy.
- Photography: Due to their vibrant color and stature, 'Centurion Sky Blue' flowers are excellent subjects for botanical photography, helping photographers to build their portfolios.
- Floral Arrangements: These flowers are ideal for creating stunning, tall centerpieces for events and home décor due to their elongated spikes and striking color.
- Educational Uses: Schools and educational institutes can use 'Centurion Sky Blue' to teach students about plant biology, hybridization, and horticulture.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the blooms could be used as an ornamental, non-toxic garnish for special culinary presentations.
- Art Inspiration: The striking appearance can inspire artists and serve as a model for paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art.
- Color Therapy: Their vibrant blue color can be used in color therapy practices to evoke a sense of calmness and serenity in environments like spas and retreats.
- Handmade Paper: Incorporating dried petals into handmade paper can create a beautiful textured effect, ideal for unique stationery or gift wrapping.
- Crafting Potpourri: Dried Delphinium petals can contribute color and volume to handcrafted potpourri mixtures, though they may not have a strong scent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Openness to New Experiences: The delphinium's vast sky-blue petals are often associated with a sense of exploration and embracing the unknown.
- Protection: In ancient times, it was believed delphiniums could ward off negative energies and spirits, offering a protective charm.
- Arrogance and Boldness: The tall, striking presence of the delphinium can represent standing tall with confidence and pride.
- Lightness and Levity: The delicate structure of the delphinium can symbolize a carefree attitude and a sense of joy.
- Positivity: The bright blue hue of the Centurion Sky Blue delphinium is often linked with positive emotions and good intentions.
- Healing: Delphiniums have been used in traditional medicine, and symbolically, they can represent healing from emotional or physical pain.
- Remembrance: Delphiniums are sometimes planted in memory of lost loved ones, symbolizing cherishing memories and honoring the past.
- Celebrating Achievements: The grandeur of the delphinium can signify a celebration of success and accomplishments.
WaterLarkspurs prefer evenly moist soil, so water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil dries out. In general, this might be about once a week, but you should always check the soil moisture first. It’s best to use a soaking method, allowing water to penetrate deeply into the soil at the base of the plant, which encourages deep root growth. During peak summer heat, you may need to water more frequently, up to twice a week. Aim to provide the larkspur with 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per watering session, depending on the size of the plant and environmental conditions.
LightLarkspurs thrive in full sunlight, where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun per day. These plants will perform best in a location that has clear access to the sun without any significant shade, as prolonged shade can lead to weaker stems and fewer blooms. Ensure the chosen spot is away from taller plants that could cast shadows and impede their light intake.
TemperatureLarkspurs can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they grow best when daytime temperatures are between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. While they can survive slightly cooler night temperatures, it's important to protect them from frosts, which can be damaging. They generally do not thrive in conditions exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit, as high heat can cause stress to the plant.
PruningPruning larkspurs is necessary to promote vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Prune larkspurs back to the ground in late fall or early winter, after flowering has finished and foliage has died back. This annual pruning will help prevent disease and promote a tidy appearance. Additionally, pruning out any damaged or diseased stems during the growing season can help maintain plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ideal soil mix for Larkspur, particularly the Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue', should be well-draining and fertile with the addition of organic matter such as compost or peat moss. A balanced pH level for this plant ranges from 6.0 to 7.5. It's important to avoid heavy clay or sandy soils that can lead to poor growth or drainage issues.
RepottingLarkspurs typically do not require frequent repotting as they are perennial plants. However, if grown in containers, Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue' should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth, ideally in the spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingLarkspurs like Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue' thrive in moderate humidity conditions. They do not have specific humidity requirements beyond what is typically found in temperate outdoor environments. However, ensuring good air circulation can help prevent disease which is common in high humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and good air flow for indoor Larkspur.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, enrich soil, protect from strong wind for Larkspur.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA.
Life cycleThe life of Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue', commonly known as Larkspur, begins with the germination of seeds sown in early spring or fall in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Seedlings emerge and develop into young plants with distinct foliage, and as temperatures rise, they experience a period of vegetative growth where they form their characteristic tall spikes and deeply lobed leaves. The growth culminates in the flowering stage during the early summer, where stalks are adorned with clusters of vivid sky blue flowers attracting pollinators. After pollination, the plant sets seed, which can be collected for propagation or allowed to self-sow; meanwhile, the plant often enters a state of dormancy during the heat of late summer. In the fall, Larkspur may experience a secondary growth spurt and, in some cases, a lighter second blooming period if conditions are favorable. As winter approaches, the plant dies back to the crown, where it remains dormant until the warmth of the next spring stimulates the new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The Delphinium 'Centurion Sky Blue' is commonly propagated using seed. The ideal time to sow Delphinium seeds is in late winter to early spring, using a well-draining, soilless mix to avoid fungal diseases. To increase the chances of germination, it's beneficial to stratify the seeds by placing them in a sealed bag with moist sand and storing them in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in small pots or trays at a shallow depth, usually about an eighth of an inch (approximately 3 millimeters), and covered lightly with soil. The containers should be placed in a warm area under grow lights or in a greenhouse, maintaining a consistent temperature of around 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius), until germination occurs, which typically takes 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots to grow on before being planted out in the garden after the risk of frost has passed.
