Larkspur Delphinium 'Galileo'
ABOUT
The Delphinium 'Galileo' is a striking plant known for its impressive spikes of blossoms. It showcases a stunning array of rich blue flowers that are tightly clustered along these erect spikes. The individual flowers are shaped like little cups or bells, and they often have a slightly darker or lighter bee, which is the central part of the flower contrasting with the main petal color. This bee can appear in various shades and may even have a few specks or lines, providing an intricate detail to the overall floral display. The foliage of the Delphinium 'Galileo' is equally attractive, featuring deeply lobed leaves with a rich green color that forms an attractive backdrop for the vivid blooms. The leaves are arranged in a lush and bushy manner, giving substance to the base of the plant and drawing the eye up towards the towering flowers. Overall, the Delphinium 'Galileo' exudes an aura of classic cottage garden beauty, with its distinctively elegant flower spikes and vibrant colors contributing to its popularity among gardeners and florists alike. Its majestic presence can make it a centerpiece in gardens or a star in floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Galileo Larkspur, Galileo Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Galileo'.
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, including Delphinium 'Galileo', is highly toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains a group of alkaloids, such as delphinine, which are poisonous. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and paralysis. Severe cases can lead to respiratory failure and death. The level of toxicity can vary depending on the specific plant and the amount ingested.
To pets
Larkspur, including Delphinium 'Galileo', is also toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause similar symptoms in pets as in humans, such as gastrointestinal upset, drooling, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, and convulsions. In severe cases, it can cause cardiac failure and respiratory paralysis, which can be fatal. Pet owners should prevent animals from having access to any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Delphinium 'Galileo', commonly known as Larkspur, adds a striking vertical accent to gardens with its tall spires of vibrant blue flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers are attractive to butterflies, bees, and other pollinating insects, which are essential for a healthy ecosystem within the garden.
- Provides Cut Flowers: Larkspur is a popular choice for cut flower arrangements due to its long stems and beautiful blossoms.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms in early summer, providing color and interest in the garden during this time.
- Companion Planting: Larkspur can be planted alongside other perennials and annuals to create layered and textured garden designs.
- Cold Hardy: Being a perennial, it is capable of withstanding colder climates and can return year after year.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Due to its striking blue flowers, the Delphinium is often used as a vibrant background or subject in floral photography compositions.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may choose Delphiniums for still life paintings or drawings because of their unique structure and color.
- Dye Production: The rich blue petals of the Delphinium can be used to create natural dyes for textiles and crafting projects.
- Educational Tool: Biology teachers can use the Delphinium plant to illustrate the parts of a flower and explain pollination to students.
- Garden Design: Delphiniums are used in cottage gardens to give vertical interest and can be planted to create color-themed garden sections.
- Marker of Time: Some garden enthusiasts plant Delphiniums to mark the peak of summer, as they typically flower in June or July.
- Theatrical Uses: Delphinium flowers might be used in stage productions or photo shoots to evoke a particular mood or setting due to their vivid color and stature.
- Culinary Garnish: Though not widely known for edibility, Delphinium petals can occasionally garnish desserts or salads for ornamental purposes only.
- Horticultural Competitions: Delphiniums are often grown by enthusiasts to be entered into flower shows and horticultural contests for their impressive spikes and blooms.
- Symbolic Present: In some cultures, Delphiniums are given as gifts symbolizing goodwill, protection, or fun - though not related to any historical lore, but purely for their aesthetic.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Larkspur is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Larkspur is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Delphiniums have been associated with protection due to their tall and stately presence, which seems to guard the surrounding flowers.
- Openness to New Experiences: The flower's name, ‘Galileo’, references the famed astronomer, suggesting an openness to exploration and learning.
- Health and Well-being: Traditionally, delphiniums have been used in folk medicine, symbolizing a wish for good health.
- Arrogance: In some cultures, the delphinium's bold stature could represent a sense of superiority or arrogance.
- Fun and Levity: The bright colors and playful look of the flower embody a spirit of fun and light-heartedness.
- Big-heartedness: The lush, full blooms suggest abundance and a generous spirit.
- Heavenly Aspirations: The tall spikes reaching upwards can symbolize striving toward the heavens and pursuing high ideals.
WaterLarkspur, commonly known as Delphinium 'Galileo', thrives when its soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the larkspur thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which could be about once a week during active growth in warmer months, or less frequently during cooler months. Depending on the size of the plant and the weather conditions, this typically means supplying the larkspur with 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week. During the hot summer months or in particularly dry climates, more frequent watering may be necessary to maintain optimum soil moisture.
LightLarkspurs, such as Delphinium 'Galileo', require full sun to partial shade to flourish. They should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, and some afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter climates. Avoid placing larkspur in deep shade, as this can hinder flower development and overall vitality.
TemperatureLarkspur, known as Delphinium 'Galileo', prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F but can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F and as high as 85°F. They generally struggle in high heat, so it's important to provide some shade if temperatures exceed 85°F, especially in southern regions.
PruningLarkspur, or Delphinium 'Galileo', should be pruned to encourage strong growth and improve air circulation. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will promote further blooming. After the first flush of flowers has faded, cut back the flower stalks to just above ground level to encourage a second bloom. Pruning is typically done immediately after flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Galileo' thrives best in well-draining soil mixed with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. An ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly alkaline, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. A soil mix containing equal parts of loam, sand, and peat is often recommended to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingLarkspurs, including 'Galileo', typically do not require frequent repotting as they are often grown as annuals or short-lived perennials. If grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Galileo' prefers moderate humidity levels; however, it is fairly adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity conditions as long as good air circulation is provided around the plant to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, fertile well-draining soil, and ample space.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleDelphinium 'Galileo', commonly known as Larkspur, begins its life cycle with seed germination which occurs in early spring when soil temperatures are cool. Following germination, the seedlings develop true leaves and gradually form a basal rosette. The plant then undergoes vegetative growth, developing long, sturdy stems and deeply lobed leaves. Flowering in Delphinium 'Galileo' typically takes place in late spring to early summer, showcasing tall spikes of densely packed blue or violet flowers. Once pollinated, the flowers fade and give way to seed formation, with seeds dispersing in late summer or early fall. The plant is perennial, so after seed dispersal, it may undergo a period of dormancy before resuming the cycle with new growth the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Delphinium 'Galileo', commonly referred to as Larkspur, is best propagated from seed. The most popular method of propagating Larkspur involves sowing the seeds directly into the ground. Sowing should occur in early spring, once the soil has warmed up to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 degrees Celsius). To sow, prepare the soil by loosening it and adding some compost to provide nutrients. Plant the seeds a quarter-inch deep (about 6 millimeters) and space them approximately 2 inches (about 5 centimeters) apart. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as standing water can cause the seeds to rot. Seedlings will emerge in approximately 2 to 3 weeks, and should be thinned if they are too crowded, which can impede their growth.
