Larkspur Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender' (Aurora Series)
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender', a member of the Aurora Series, boasts an exquisite appearance. This plant is characterized by its showy, tall spikes of vibrant lavender flowers, which are known for their star-shaped and delicate-looking blooms. Each flower is composed of several smaller petals that fan out from a central core, with some varieties featuring a contrasting white or light-colored “bee,” or central part of the flower. The blooms are densely packed, creating a lush and dramatic display that often becomes the focal point in gardens. Its foliage is equally attractive, consisting of deeply lobed green leaves that provide a textured and lush backdrop for the stunning floral spires. The leaves typically grow close to the base of the plant, forming a mound from which the flower spikes emerge. The overall effect of the Aurora Lavender's appearance is one of regal elegance and a classic cottage garden charm, making it a popular choice for those looking to add a splash of cool, soothing color to their landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender'
ToxicityTo humans
Delphinium, commonly known as Larkspur, is toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids, particularly the seeds and young plants. Symptoms of delphinium poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. More severe toxicity can result in muscle weakness, coordination problems, convulsions, and potentially can be life-threatening due to respiratory paralysis or cardiotoxic effects. It is essential to exercise caution and avoid ingesting any part of the Larkspur plant.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The entire plant is poisonous due to its high content of alkaloids, especially in the seeds and new growth. In pets, symptoms of Larkspur poisoning may include drooling, abdominal pain, frequent bowel movements, weakness, muscle tremors, stiffness, and possible seizures. In severe cases, respiratory failure and fatal heart arrhythmias can occur. It is crucial to keep pets away from Larkspur plants and seek veterinary care immediately if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
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
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which can help pollinate your garden.
- Visual appeal: The plant features striking lavender flowers that can add a splash of color and height to garden borders or floral arrangements.
- Cottage garden charm: Delphiniums are classic elements of a cottage garden, creating an aesthetic of informal splendor and rural tranquility.
- Seasonal interest: Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender' provides seasonal interest with its summer blooming period, especially in regions with cooler summers.
- Cut flowers: The long stems and showy blooms make for excellent cut flowers that can bring indoor decoration and color to a home.
- Versatile planting: They can be planted in flower beds, borders, and can be used for background plantings due to their height.
- Easy to grow: While they do require some basic care, Delphiniums in the Aurora series are generally hardy and can be easy to grow with the right conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography backdrop: Delphiniums provide a stunning, vibrant backdrop for portrait photographers seeking a natural setting.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists often use the striking lavender color of the delphinium as inspiration for paintings, textiles, or other forms of art.
- Educational tool: Botany educators might use the delphinium to teach students about plant growth habits, flower structure, and pollination.
- Bee garden addition: Delphiniums attract bees and can be included in bee-friendly gardens to support pollinator populations.
- Theme gardens: These plants are often used in moon gardens or monochromatic garden designs due to their cool lavender hues.
- Culinary decoration: While not edible, the flowers can be used to decorate cakes or dishes for special events, but they should be removed before consumption.
- Dye production: The petals of delphiniums can be used to create natural dyes for textiles or craft projects.
- Crafting material: Dried delphinium flowers can be incorporated into homemade potpourris, sachets, or dried flower arrangements.
- Maze and labyrinth designs: Taller varieties of delphiniums, when planted in linear patterns, can contribute to the structure of garden mazes or labyrinths.
- Cultural ceremonies: In certain cultures, delphinium flowers may be used in ceremonies or celebrations due to their color and form.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Big-heartedness: Delphiniums, also known as larkspurs, often symbolize an open heart and ardent attachment, suggesting a feeling of lightness and levity.
- Protection: In folklore, delphiniums were thought to ward off spirits, symbolizing protection.
- Heavenly: The name "delphinium" is derived from the Greek word "delphis," meaning dolphin, referring to the shape of the bud. The association with the dolphin, a creature of the sea, imparts a heavenly or divine connotation to the plant.
- Ardent Attachment: The delphinium's towering spires and vibrant blooms connote a strong bond of love.
- Lightness and Levity: Delphiniums' graceful form contributes to their association with lightheartedness and positive energy.
- New Opportunities: Their lush, inviting blooms suggest a sense of opening up to new possibilities and adventures.
WaterLarkspur, commonly known as Delphinium, needs moderate but regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, which might be approximately once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions. An approximate guideline is to provide 1 gallon of water per plant every week, but this could vary based on temperature and humidity. During peak summer heat, more frequent watering may be necessary, while less is required during cooler, rainy periods. Avoid overhead watering to prevent diseases; instead, water directly at the soil level.
LightLarkspurs like the Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender' thrive best in full sun. A location that provides at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight is ideal to promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Partial shade is tolerated, especially in regions with very hot summers, but too much shade can result in leggy plants and fewer blooms.
TemperatureLarkspurs prefer cooler climates, with ideal growing temperatures ranging between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender' can withstand a minimum temperature of about 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Excessive heat can lead to stress and poor growth, so it's important to protect the plant from extreme heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune Larkspurs to maintain their shape, encourage bushier growth, and improve air circulation, which helps in reducing disease risk. After the first flush of flowers fades, cut back the flower stalks to promote a second bloom. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Larkspur, the best soil mix is loamy, well-draining soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. It should be slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingLarkspur is typically not repotted as it is a perennial grown outdoors, but any transplanting should be done cautiously as it does not like root disturbance.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur prefers moderate humidity levels, but it is adaptable and can tolerate the humidity levels found in most outdoor garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, cool temperatures, and well-draining soil for indoor Larkspur.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, in well-draining soil, and provide regular watering for outdoor Larkspur.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleDelphinium 'Aurora Lavender', commonly known as larkspur, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically in early spring when soil temperatures warm. After germination, the seedling develops true leaves and a root system, entering a vegetative growth phase where it forms a rosette of basal leaves. As the larkspur matures, it enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, producing tall spikes adorned with lavender blooms. After pollination, often by bees or butterflies, the flowers develop into small capsules containing tiny seeds. Once seeds mature, the plant enters a period of senescence, where it begins to die back, especially if it is an annual or biennial variety. In perennial types, the larkspur may enter dormancy after setting seed, surviving through winter to regrow the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Delphinium 'Aurora Lavender', commonly known as Larkspur, is typically propagated by seed. The ideal time to sow Larkspur seeds is in early spring when the soil is cool and a light frost is still possible. The seeds should be scattered on the surface of the soil and lightly covered or pressed into the soil, as they require some light for germination. It is crucial to keep the seed bed moist but not waterlogged. Germination generally takes place within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be thinned and transplanted if needed to ensure they have adequate space to grow. It's important to handle the delicate roots with care to avoid damage.
