Delphinium Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin'
ABOUT
The Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin', commonly known as larkspur, is a striking perennial with a showy and flamboyant appearance. It is renowned for its beautiful spires of densely packed flowers, which are a brilliant shade of salmon pink with a contrasting white, bee-like center known as the "bee". This center adds an eye-catching detail that contrasts the bright color of the petals. The larkspur's foliage is comprised of deeply lobed, medium green leaves which provide a lush backdrop for the vibrant blooms. The flowers are arranged on tall, sturdy stalks, and this species of larkspur is known for its propensity to bloom profusely under the right growing conditions, creating a dramatic display of color. Resplendent when planted in groups, the Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin' makes for an excellent addition to cottage gardens, mixed borders, or any garden setting where vertical interest and vivid color are desired. As a cut flower, its long-lasting blooms are a sumptuous choice for bouquets and arrangements, offering a touch of garden charm indoors.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Larkspur, Candle Larkspur, Spire, Giant Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin'.
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, including Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin', contains toxic alkaloids that can be harmful if ingested. If parts of the plant are eaten, it may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and possibly paralysis. In severe cases, ingestion can result in respiratory failure and death.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Consuming this plant can cause symptoms similar to those in humans, like drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. More severe reactions may include muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, or seizures. In extreme cases, respiratory failure and death can occur if a pet ingests a significant amount of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The plant produces showy flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its striking blue flowers, Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin' adds color and height to garden borders and beds.
- Used in Cut Flower Arrangements: The long stems and vibrant blooms make it an excellent choice for bouquets and floral displays.
- Cottage Garden Plant: Its traditional look is ideal for cottage garden designs.
- Seasonal Interest: Typically blooms in late spring to early summer, providing seasonal interest in the garden.
- Vertical Element: Can provide a vertical aspect to gardens due to its tall spires of flowers.
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 flowers can be used to create blue dyes for textiles, providing a natural alternative to synthetic dyes.
- Education and Research: The Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin' can be used as a specimen for botanical studies due to its distinctive traits.
- Crafts and Decorations: Dried Delphinium flowers can be used in flower arrangements, wreaths, or potpourri due to their vibrant colors and long-lasting qualities.
- Photography: The striking appearance of the Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin' makes it an excellent subject for botanical photography and art.
- Theater and Film: The Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin' can be used as part of set design in theater productions and film to create a specific ambiance or scenery.
- Garden Design: Delphiniums can be used to add height and structure to garden beds, serving as a backdrop for shorter plants.
- Beekeeping: Delphiniums can attract pollinators such as bees, which is beneficial for beekeepers trying to establish or maintain a healthy bee environment.
- Festivals and Celebrations: Flowers of the Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin' can be used in floral displays during events and festivals, especially those in the spring and summer.
- Bookmark Creation: Pressed Delphinium flowers can be laminated and used to make unique, decorative bookmarks.
- Seed Harvesting: Gardeners can collect seeds from the Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin' for propagation, allowing them to grow new plants each year.
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 symbolize striving for new opportunities and reaching out for new experiences.
- Protection and Safety: Historically, delphiniums were believed to ward off dangers and evil spirits, symbolizing a protective barrier.
- Ardent Attachment: The tall and striking appearance of the delphinium represents strong bonds of love and an ardent attachment to someone.
- Heavenly Aspirations: With their spikes pointing upwards, delphiniums often symbolize aspirations and heavenly thoughts.
- Fun and Levity: The vibrant colors and playful look of the delphinium convey a sense of joy, fun, and lightheartedness.
- Remembrance: Delphiniums are also associated with remembrance of loved ones, offering comfort for those left behind.
- Overall Success: They are often used to symbolize overall success and are given as encouragement to someone who is facing challenges or as congratulations for accomplishments.
WaterLarkspur needs consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches each time. It's critical to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. During periods of drought, increase watering frequency to maintain moist soil. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy.
LightLarkspur thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade; however, too much shade may lead to weak stems and fewer blooms. The best spot for larkspur is in a garden area that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid overly shaded areas to ensure vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureLarkspur prefers moderate temperatures and struggles in extreme heat or cold. The ideal growing temperature range is between 50°F and 65°F. The plant can withstand a light frost, but temperatures below 32°F may damage or kill it. Additionally, in areas where summer temperatures regularly exceed 75°F, the plant may not perform well and could require additional shade.
PruningLarkspur should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom. Deadheading, or cutting off the flower spikes after blooming, will usually promote new growth. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems. The best time for pruning is after the first flush of flowers has faded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin', commonly known as Larkspur, is a well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter like compost. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline, ideally between 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingLarkspurs rarely need repotting as they are generally treated as annual or biennial. If grown in containers, repotting may be done every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
Humidity & MistingLarkspurs prefer moderate humidity levels. However, they can tolerate a wide range of humidity conditions as long as they are not exposed to excessive moisture, which can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, ample space, and stake tall plants.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, stake if needed.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin', commonly known as the Larkspur, begins with seed germination, which requires stratification to break dormancy and typically occurs in early spring. Following germination, the seedlings develop a root system and foliage in a vegetative growth phase. The plant then enters a period of rapid stem and leaf growth until it reaches maturity. Throughout the late spring and early summer, Larkspur produces tall spikes of colorful flowers, during which it undergoes pollination, often attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which will mature by late summer and can be collected for propagation or left to self-sow. Finally, as a perennial, the Larkspur will die back to the crown in the fall, entering a period of dormancy over the winter before regrowing the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The most popular method of propagating Delphinium 'Elisabeth Sahin', often known as larkspur, is by seed. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. Alternatively, for earlier blooms, seeds can be started indoors about 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Use a light seed-starting mix and sow the seeds shallowly, as they require light to germinate. After sowing, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature of around 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius). Seedlings usually emerge in 14 to 21 days. Once seedlings are large enough to handle and there's no more risk of frost, they can be transplanted outdoors to their final positions, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 centimeters) apart.
