Delphinium Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins'
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins' is a striking perennial plant that features a rich display of flowers. It is known for its pastel-colored blooms, which range from a soft blush pink to a delicate lavender, often with a hint of blue. The flowers are densely packed on tall spikes that rise above the foliage, creating an impressive vertical element in gardens. Each individual flower is complex, with a prominent central bee or eye that is typically a contrasting color, like white or black, which adds to their distinctive and eye-catching appearance. The leaves of the plant are deeply lobed, creating a lacy and textured look. They are a bright green color that provides a lush backdrop for the vivid flowers. The leaves are arranged neatly near the base of the plant, forming a mound from which the flower spikes emanate. The overall appearance of Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins' is one of elegance and classic beauty. Its blooms are frequently sought after for inclusion in floral arrangements and are a favorite among gardeners who wish to create a traditional or cottage garden look. This plant is especially prized for the vertical interest it brings to gardens, as well as its attractive color palette that blends seamlessly with a variety of other plants.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Larkspur, Elatum Delphinium.
Common names
Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Delphinium, commonly known as larkspur, is a toxic plant to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain alkaloids that can cause serious poisoning. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle spasms, paralysis, and possibly death due to respiratory failure if a sufficient quantity is consumed. Care should be taken to prevent ingestion and to seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
To pets
Larkspur is toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, if they consume any part of the plant. The plant contains several toxic alkaloids that can cause severe symptoms such as drooling, abdominal pain, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, and convulsions. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure and death. If you suspect your pet has ingested larkspur, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
6 feet [1.83 meters]
Spread
2 feet [0.61 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins', commonly known as Larkspur, showcases tall spikes of blossoms in stunning shades of blue, which add a striking vertical accent to garden beds and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Larkspur are known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are essential for the pollination of plants and the overall health of the garden ecosystem.
- Cut Flower Garden Addition: Larkspur is an excellent choice for a cut flower garden, as its long stems and vibrant flowers make beautiful arrangements and bouquets.
- Seasonal Color: Larkspur provides seasonal color in the garden, usually blooming in late spring to early summer, which helps to bridge the gap between the bloom times of other garden plants.
- Garden Structure: The tall and stately form of Larkspur adds structure to garden plantings, especially when used as a backdrop for lower-growing plants or in mixed perennial borders.
- Cottage Garden Charm: Larkspur is often associated with the classic cottage garden style, adding a touch of old-fashioned romance and charm to any garden setting.
- Companion Planting: Larkspur works well when planted alongside roses, peonies, and other perennials, providing a complementary height and color contrast that enhances the overall garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a blue dye: Historically, certain species of Delphinium were used to create blue dyes for textiles.
- In art and photography: Delphinium flowers can be used as subjects or props in still life photography and botanical illustrations due to their striking appearance.
- As a natural pest repellent: Some gardeners plant Delphinium near vegetable gardens as they are believed to repel certain pests.
- Adding structure to gardens: With their tall spires, Delphinium can be used to add vertical interest and structure to floral garden designs.
- In floristry: Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins' is a popular choice for wedding bouquets and floral arrangements due to its vibrant colors and long stems.
- For educational purposes: The plant can be used to teach botanical illustration and plant anatomy in educational settings due to its distinct features.
- As an indicator of soil health: Delphinium prefers rich, well-drained soil, so its robust growth can indicate soil fertility.
- As a natural fabric softener: Flowers of Delphinium have been traditionally placed in bags for use as a natural fabric softener when drying laundry.
- In homemade potpourri: Dried Delphinium flowers can be mixed with other botanicals to create fragrant potpourri.
- For color-themed gardens: Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins' is perfect for creating monochromatic or cool-tone color schemes in a garden setting.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Larkspur is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Larkspur is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Openness to New Experiences: The Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins', commonly known as Larkspur, often symbolizes a willingness to embrace new opportunities and experiences.
- Protection: Larkspur is also associated with protection, particularly in ancient times when it was believed to ward off scorpions and other dangers.
- Ardent Attachment: The flower signifies a strong bond of love, indicating deep attachment and a sense of dedication toward loved ones.
- Lightness and Levity: With its towering spikes and airy blossoms, Larkspur embodies a sense of lightness and humor, encouraging a cheerful disposition.
- Remembrance: In some traditions, Larkspur is used to commemorate lost ones, symbolizing the lasting impact of memories and the continuation of love beyond parting.
WaterLarkspur, commonly known as Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins', requires regular watering to maintain moist, but not waterlogged soil, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time, which is approximately 0.623 gallons for a 12-inch diameter pot. Adjust watering frequency based on weather conditions, watering more frequently during hot, dry spells and less during cool, rainy periods. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. During winter, reduce watering, allowing the soil surface to dry out between waterings.
LightLarkspur thrives in a location where it can receive full sun, which means at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot is one that is sheltered from strong winds but still receives ample sunlight. For optimum growth, place your Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins' in an area with southern or western exposure to ensure it gets enough light without being shaded by trees or buildings.
TemperatureLarkspur prefers moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate minimum winter temperatures down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins' is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime. It can survive occasional dips below this range but should be protected from hard frosts and extremely high temperatures.
PruningPruning Larkspur is important to promote vigorous growth and prevent diseases by increasing air circulation. For Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins', deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and cut back the stalks to the ground after flowering to maintain a tidy appearance. Complete these pruning tasks during the growing season as needed and do an additional clean-up pruning in late fall or early winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Emily Hawkins' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure; it prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix incorporating equal parts of loam, organic matter, and sand or perlite is ideal, providing good drainage and fertility.
RepottingLarkspur 'Emily Hawkins' typically doesn't require frequent repotting. It should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound to ensure adequate room for growth.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Emily Hawkins' does best in moderate humidity levels; aim for around 40-60% which is typical of outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample light, well-draining soil, and cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, enrich soil, protect from strong wind.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins', commonly known as Larkspur, begins its life cycle when its seeds are sown in well-draining soil, typically in early spring or after the danger of frost has passed. Germination occurs with the emergence of the young seedling, which then develops into a rosette of basal leaves during its vegetative growth stage. As the plant matures, flower spikes form and elongate, boasting a dramatic display of spurred blossoms that are primarily blue or purple, which is the defining feature of 'Emily Hawkins'. The flowering stage occurs in early to mid-summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies that facilitate cross-pollination. After pollination, seeds develop in small, capsule-like fruits, which eventually dry and release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of senescence, with foliage dying back, especially in climates with cold winters, though it may regrow from overwintering rootstock if conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Delphinium 'Emily Hawkins', also known as larkspur, is commonly propagated by seed. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter to early spring, aiming to plant the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. To propagate by seed, begin by preparing a seed starting mix in a flat or container, ensuring it's moistened evenly. Sprinkle the seeds across the surface and cover them lightly with soil, as delphinium seeds require darkness to germinate. Cover the container with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and place it in a warm area, around 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
