Delphinium Delphinium 'Clifford Sky'
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Clifford Sky' is characterized by its striking show of tall spikes adorned with densely packed flowers that grace the garden with a vivid blue color. The individual blossoms are a notable feature, as they present a gradient of blue shades, sometimes with a hint of purple, which can create a breathtaking view when the plant is in full bloom. The shape of the flowers is quite distinctive. Each petal forms a gentle cup shape that is lapped over by another, giving the blooms a neat, almost geometric appearance. The center of each bloom, often called the "bee," stands out with a contrasting white or black color, which adds depth and intricacy to the flower's aesthetic appeal. These centers are a compelling touch that draws both human eyes and eager pollinators. The foliage of Delphinium 'Clifford Sky' is comprised of deeply cut, green leaves that provide a lush background for the floral display. The texture of the leaves is somewhat glossy and they are finely divided, almost fern-like, lending a delicate softness to the plant's overall appearance. As a perennial, Delphinium 'Clifford Sky' presents a stately and elegant silhouette in the landscape, contributing to its popularity amongst gardeners who seek to add vertical interest and stunning blue hues to their garden compositions. The plant is attractive not only for its height but also for the clustered arrangement of its blooms, which form a statuesque column of color during its peak season. It is often used as a backdrop in garden beds or as a striking feature when planted in groups, creating a sea of blue that can mimic the sky in a well-arranged garden. Overall, the allure of Delphinium 'Clifford Sky' lies in the combination of its lofty bloom spikes, richly colored flowers, and attractive, finely cut foliage, making it a prized addition to any temperate garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Clifford Sky'.
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur is poisonous to humans. All parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids such as delphinine and ajacine. If ingested, it can cause symptoms including nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and severe muscular weakness. In severe cases, respiratory distress, paralysis, and even death can result from ingestion. It is important to handle these plants with care and to ensure they are not accidentally ingested.
To pets
Larkspur is also poisonous to pets, including dogs and cats. The plant contains alkaloids that can lead to symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, muscular tremors, stiffness, weakness, and seizures. In severe cases, the consumption of larkspur can cause life-threatening symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmia and respiratory paralysis. It is critical to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant to avert possible poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Visual Appeal: Adds striking blue flowers to garden landscapes.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, cottage gardens, and cut flower arrangements.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Height Variety: Contributes to the vertical interest in a garden design.
- Seasonal Color: Provides vibrant blossoms in the late spring to early summer.
- Rebloom Potential: Some varieties can flower again if spent blooms are removed.
- Rural Charm: Reflects the classic beauty typical of English countryside gardens.
- Cold-Hardy: Performs well in cooler climates and returns each year as a perennial.
- Companion Planting: Complements roses and other traditional perennials in garden layouts.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Delphinium plants, which are known for their tall, colorful spikes, can be used as a natural dye, providing a range of colors from blues to purples depending on the mordant used.
- The tall and sturdy stalks of these plants can be used creatively in homemade wind chimes or garden mobiles when dried, giving them a second life after blooming.
- Pressed delphinium flowers can be used in art projects, such as creating botanical prints or in resin jewelry, taking advantage of their vivid colors and intricate shapes.
- Their colorful blooms can be frozen in ice cubes to create elegant and decorative elements for summer drinks at garden parties.
- Delphinium petals, non-toxic to some animals, can be used as a natural confetti alternative in outdoor celebrations, decomposing naturally without harm to the environment.
- Dried delphinium flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixes, adding color and a light, fresh fragrance to a room.
- The stalks of the Delphinium can be woven into baskets or other craft items when harvested and dried properly, offering a unique material with natural beauty.
- These plants can serve as a natural pest deterrent in the garden; some gardeners plant Delphiniums to discourage certain insects from settling in.
- Delphinium petals can be used in envelope sachets or as a colorful addition to writing paper for a special touch in personal correspondence.
- The tall, elegant flowers of the Delphinium can be used as a natural backdrop or screen in garden photography, offering a vibrant canvas of color.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Openness to New Experiences: Delphiniums often symbolize an invitation to take on new opportunities and embrace change, possibly alluding to the vastness of the sky reflected in the 'Clifford Sky' variant.
- Protection and Safety: In some traditions, delphiniums are believed to ward off dangers and threats, offering a sense of safety and protection.
- Positivity and Good Fortune: With their bright colors and soaring spikes, delphiniums like 'Clifford Sky' can represent positivity and the pursuit of success.
- Remembrance: Delphiniums are also used to honor the memory of loved ones, expressing deep emotional connections and remembrance.
- Arrogance and Fickleness: On the flip side, some may interpret the delphinium's towering presence as a symbol of arrogance or levity in commitments.
WaterLarkspur requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time. During periods of high heat or drought, you may need to water more frequently to maintain moist soil. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease, aiming the water at the soil level instead. Ensure there's proper drainage as larkspurs do not like waterlogged roots.
LightLarkspur thrives in full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth, plant it in a spot where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you're in a particularly hot climate, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from scorching.
TemperatureLarkspur prefers cooler temperatures and will flourish in conditions ranging between 50°F and 70°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to approximately 40°F, but it is sensitive to high heat; temperatures consistently above 80°F may stunt growth or cause stress. Providing a mulch layer can help to moderate soil temperature.
PruningPrune larkspur to maintain its shape and promote vigorous growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage additional blooms. After the main bloom period, cutting back by one-third can stimulate a second flowering. Prune the plant down to the ground in late fall after it has gone dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Clifford Sky' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. A suitable mix could be equal parts loam, compost, and coarse sand or perlite for added drainage.
RepottingLarkspur 'Clifford Sky' should be repotted every two to three years, or when it outgrows its current container, to provide fresh soil and encourage continued growth.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Clifford Sky' thrives in moderate humidity conditions, generally around 50-60%, but is quite resilient and can tolerate a range of humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and cool temperatures for Larkspur 'Clifford Sky'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to part shade in fertile, moist soil for Larkspur 'Clifford Sky'.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleDelphinium 'Clifford Sky', commonly known as Larkspur, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate, usually in late winter to early spring, under adequate conditions of moisture and temperature. Following germination, seedlings grow True Leaves and develop a small root system. During late spring to early summer, the Larkspur enters the vegetative stage, rapidly growing taller and establishing a larger root system. The reproductive phase follows, with the plant producing characteristic tall spikes of blue to violet flowers, usually by midsummer. After pollination, typically by bees or butterflies, the flowers develop into fruit containing seeds, completing the cycle when the seeds disperse in late summer or autumn. Larkspur is a perennial, so it will enter dormancy over winter, with the root system surviving underground, ready to regenerate and produce new shoots the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Delphinium 'Clifford Sky', commonly known as larkspur, is typically propagated through seed sowing. The best time to propagate delphiniums by seeds is in late winter to early spring, which allows for a period of cool stratification that they require to germinate well. To propagate delphiniums from seeds, place the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly cover with soil. They should be kept at a temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 18–24 degrees Celsius) and require consistent moisture to germinate, which can take 14 to 21 days. It's important to provide plenty of light once the seedlings have emerged to prevent them from becoming leggy. Transplant them to larger pots when they have several sets of true leaves, taking care not to damage the delicate roots, and acclimate them to outdoor conditions before planting them out in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
