Larkspur Delphinium 'Cherub'
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Cherub' is a beautiful ornamental plant that boasts stunning flowers and attractive foliage. The flowers of this plant are the standout feature, typically showcasing a captivating shade of blue that can sometimes lean towards sky blue or have a more lavender hue. These flowers are shaped like little cups or bells and are densely packed on towering spikes that rise above the plant's base, creating an impressive display that is reminiscent of a celestial realm, which may have inspired its angelic name. As for the foliage, Delphinium 'Cherub' has deeply lobed leaves, which are arranged neatly along the stem. These leaves provide a lush, green backdrop that makes the blue flowers even more vibrant by contrast. The leaves are somewhat glossy and have a soft, delicate texture, contributing to the overall gracefulness of the plant. This Delphinium cultivar is a favorite among gardeners and landscapers for its showy blossoms and elegant structure. It serves as an excellent addition to flower borders, cottage gardens, and can be a striking centerpiece in a floral arrangement. With its alluring appearance, it attracts not only human admirers but also beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which find the flowers irresistible.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Larkspur, Dwarf Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Cherub'.
ToxicityTo humans
The larkspur, including the variety 'Cherub', is toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain alkaloids such as delphinine, which can cause serious poisoning if ingested. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, tremors, and seizures. In severe cases, it could result in respiratory paralysis and heart failure. Prompt medical treatment is important if ingestion occurs.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets. The entire plant contains toxic alkaloids that can be harmful if ingested by animals such as dogs, cats, and horses. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, bloat, frequent bowel movements or diarrhea, weakness, and colic in horses. In severe cases, ingestion can cause paralysis of the respiratory system, cardiac failure, and can be fatal. Immediate veterinary care is necessary if a pet consumes any part of a larkspur plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 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 to the garden.
- Visual appeal: With its tall spikes of blue, purple, or white flowers, the Delphinium adds dramatic height and color to garden beds and borders.
- Cottage garden charm: The plant is a classic choice for cottage gardens, contributing to a picturesque and informal design.
- Cut flowers: Delphinium flowers are excellent for cutting and creating elegant floral arrangements.
- Vertical interest: Their tall, upright growth habit provides vertical interest in the garden landscape.
- Seasonal color: Delphiniums typically bloom in early summer, adding a burst of color when many spring flowers are fading.
- Mild climate suitability: These plants thrive in cooler climates, making them ideal for gardens in northern regions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Companion planting: Delphinium can attract pollinators such as bees, which can benefit other plants in the garden by enhancing pollination.
- Dye production: The flowers can be used to create a blue dye for coloring fabrics or other materials naturally.
- Gardening education: Delphinium 'Cherub' can be used in educational settings to teach pruning techniques due to its specific care requirements.
- Photography subject: The striking appearance of Delphinium makes it a popular subject for photographers specializing in flora and garden landscapes.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use Delphinium 'Cherub' as inspiration for art and design due to its vibrant colors and intricate flower structures.
- Theme gardens: It can be included in 'blue-themed' gardens to create a cohesive color scheme or in 'angel-themed' gardens due to the cultivar name 'Cherub'.
- Culinary decoration: While not edible, the blossoms can be used to decorate cakes and desserts for a touch of elegance, then removed before consumption.
- Cold stratification demonstrator: The seeds of Delphinium require cold stratification, making them useful for demonstrating this process in horticultural studies.
- Floral language gifts: In the language of flowers, Delphinium represents lightness and levity, making them a meaningful gift for occasions celebrating new beginnings or joy.
- Creative crafts: The stems and flowers can be used in dried floral arrangements or for creating bookmarks and greeting cards, by pressing the flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Aspiration: Delphiniums often symbolize striving for success and reaching one’s goals because of their tall, upward growth pattern.
- Protection: The name "Delphinium" comes from the Greek word "delphis," which means dolphin. It was believed to protect against scorpions in ancient times, and today it can symbolize general protection.
- Openness to New Experiences: The plant's wide, open blooms suggest a readiness to embrace new opportunities.
- Arbitrary Affection: Some cultures believe that Delphinium conveys a message of love that is not bound by any strict or specific conditions.
- Lightness and Levity: The delicate structure and airy quality of the flowers can represent a carefree attitude and a sense of joy.
- Goodwill and Encouragement: The vibrancy of the Delphinium has the ability to brighten one's day, which makes it a symbol of positive energy and morale boosting.
WaterLarkspur 'Cherub' needs consistent moisture, so water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this will be about once a week, but the frequency may increase during hot, dry periods or if you have sandy soil. An estimated 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant is a good guideline for each watering session, depending on the plant size and environmental conditions. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant and requires less moisture.
LightLarkspur 'Cherub' thrives in full sun conditions with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot that receives morning sunlight and some protection from intense afternoon rays is ideal, particularly in hotter regions. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureLarkspur 'Cherub' prefers a temperate climate with temperatures between 50°F and 75°F for optimal growth. The plant can withstand a minimum temperature of about 40°F, but frost can be damaging, so it's essential to protect it if temperatures are expected to drop below this threshold. During the summer, temperatures exceeding 85°F may stress the plant, so provide some shade during the hottest part of the day if possible.
PruningLarkspur 'Cherub' benefits from pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote additional blooming throughout the season. After the initial flowering, cut back the flower stalks by one-third to encourage a second flush of blooms. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ideal soil mix for Larkspur includes well-drained, fertile loam with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Enrich with compost and ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
RepottingLarkspurs typically do not need frequent repotting as they are perennial; however, divide clumps every 3 to 4 years to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingLarkspurs prefer moderate humidity levels; they do not require excessively high humidity and can tolerate average atmospheric moisture.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, cool temperature, and well-drained soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Delphinium 'Cherub', also known as Larkspur, begins with seed germination, which occurs in spring when soil temperatures warm up. Upon germination, seedlings emerge and develop a rosette of basal leaves. As the plant grows, a tall flowering spike forms, and by early to mid-summer, the plant blooms with a showy array of blue or violet flowers often attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed near the parent plant or further away, depending on environmental factors. In the fall, the plant begins to die back, with the above-ground portion going dormant, while the root system remains alive. The cycle restarts the following spring, when new growth emerges from the surviving roots or from the germinating seeds.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The Delphinium 'Cherub', commonly known as larkspur, is typically propagated through seed sowing. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by starting the seeds indoors before the last frost of spring. To propagate Delphinium 'Cherub' by seeds, one begins by sowing seeds shallowly, approximately 1/8 inch deep, in well-draining soil in a tray or pot. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should not be covered with soil but can be gently pressed into the soil surface. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Seedlings will often emerge in 2 to 3 weeks, and once they have grown sturdy enough and there is no risk of frost, they can be transplanted outside to a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil. It is essential to harden off the seedlings by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting to reduce transplant shock.
