Larkspur Delphinium 'Green Twist' (New Millennium Series)
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Green Twist' is a strikingly beautiful perennial known for its distinct blooms. The flowers of this New Millennium Series cultivar have a unique appearance, showcasing petals in shades of creamy white often suffused with a hint of green, and each bloom may feature a contrasting bee, or central tuft of stamens, that adds an additional color pop, usually in a dark or purplish hue. These impressive flowers are densely packed on tall spires that rise above the foliage. The foliage itself is comprised of deeply lobed leaves that are mid-green in color, arranged in a neat, bushy manner close to the base of the stems. This provides an attractive backdrop for the flower spires that emerge in summer, creating a vertical element and adding architectural interest to garden borders. The 'Green Twist' is known for its elegance and is a popular choice among gardeners looking to add height and formality to their garden compositions. It can be a captivating focal point when in bloom and has a traditional charm that pairs well with a wide range of other plants in a cottage garden setting or in more formal landscape designs. All in all, the Delphinium 'Green Twist' offers a unique and eye-catching appearance, with its unusual flower coloration and stately spires standing out in the summer garden.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Green Twist'
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, including the Delphinium 'Green Twist', is toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains various alkaloids, such as delphinine, which is a potent neurotoxin. The symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, seizures, and in severe cases, respiratory paralysis which can be potentially fatal. Caution should be exercised to avoid ingesting any part of the larkspur plant.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. The alkaloids, particularly delphinine, can cause serious health problems if any part of the plant is consumed. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning in pets include drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, and seizures. In severe cases, respiratory failure and death can occur. Therefore, pets should be kept away from larkspur plants to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Delphinium 'Green Twist' is known for its striking, tall spires of creamy white flowers with a green twist, adding aesthetic appeal to gardens.
- Height and Structure: The plant can reach considerable heights, providing vertical interest and structure to garden beds and borders.
- Pollinator Attraction: The blooms attract a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, contributing to the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Seasonal Interest: It produces its beautiful blooms in early summer, with a potential for a second blooming if spent flowers are removed.
- Garden Focal Point: Due to its size and stunning blooms, 'Green Twist' can serve as a focal point in garden design.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements due to their long stems and durability.
- RHS Award Winner: This cultivar has been awarded the prestigious Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society, indicating its excellence for garden use.
- Cottage Garden Plant: It is a classic choice for cottage gardens and contributes to the traditional charm of such settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Delphinium 'Green Twist' can be utilized as a natural dye source, providing shades of blue or green depending on the mordant used.
- These flowers can be pressed and included in botanical art pieces, adding a unique texture and shape to the artwork.
- The tall and sturdy stalks of the delphinium can be used as natural supports for other, more fragile plants in a garden setting.
- Delphinium petals can be used to create a natural confetti for weddings or celebrations, which is biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Dried delphinium flowers can be used to fill sachet bags, which can then act as an aromatic addition to drawers and closets.
- The striking look of the delphinium makes it a popular choice for decorative cake toppings or edible flower arrangements, although care must be taken because parts of the plant can be toxic if ingested.
- The plant's stalks can be incorporated into homemade wreaths or other dried floral arrangements for a rustic decorative element.
- Gardeners can use the silhouette of delphinium flowers in garden design, adding vertical lines and contrast to the overall landscape aesthetic.
- Delphinium 'Green Twist' can be used as a model in botanical studies or photography, due to its distinctive appearance and coloration.
- The plant can serve as an inspiration for poets and writers who are drawn to its ethereal beauty and the rich symbolism associated with delphiniums.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Delphiniums are often associated with protection, as they were thought to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.
- Openness to New Experiences: The tall and upward growth of the delphinium represents reaching out to the unknown, symbolizing an openness to new experiences and opportunities.
- Positivity: With their bright and vibrant flowers, delphiniums symbolize positivity and the encouragement to live life to the fullest.
- Divine Influence: Historically, the delphinium was associated with divine influence, as its name derives from 'delphis', the Greek word for dolphin, which was connected to the god Apollo.
- Arbitrary/arrogance: In some traditions, the majestic appearance of the delphinium also symbolizes a sense of arrogance or being big-hearted.
WaterLarkspurs should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overhead watering which can lead to fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. Over the course of a week, these plants generally require about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water, though this might vary based on temperature and soil conditions. During particularly hot or dry spells, more frequent watering may be necessary to keep the soil consistently moist.
LightLarkspurs thrive in locations that provide full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. They perform best in a spot that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of the late afternoon sun. However, in areas with very hot summers, partial afternoon shade can prevent the flowers from wilting and help retain their vibrant colors.
TemperatureLarkspurs prefer cooler climates and generally do well in temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. While they can tolerate a light frost, temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit may damage the plant. Conversely, temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can result in diminished blooms and stunted growth, highlighting the importance of situating them where they can enjoy milder conditions.
PruningLarkspurs should be pruned to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and facilitate more prolific blooming. Deadheading spent flowers will promote a longer blooming season and help prevent self-seeding if not desired. The best time to prune is after the initial flush of flowers has faded, which typically occurs in mid to late summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Green Twist' thrives in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A good mix would be equal parts loamy soil, compost, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingLarkspur 'Green Twist' doesn't require frequent repotting as it is typically grown as an annual or biennial. Repot only if the plant has outgrown its current container or the soil is exhausted.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Green Twist' prefers moderate humidity levels but is tolerant of a wide range, as long as there is good air circulation around the plant to prevent mildew.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Larkspur 'Green Twist' in a spot with full sun and good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant Larkspur 'Green Twist' in full sun and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleDelphinium 'Green Twist', also known as Larkspur, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown, germinates in the cool temperatures of early spring or autumn. Once the seedling emerges, it develops a basal rosette of leaves and a sturdy root system. As the weather warms, the plant sends up a central flowering stalk, which can reach up to 1 to 2 meters in height, adorned with green-tinged, white flowers often during late spring to early summer. Following pollination by bees and other insects, the larkspur sets seed in small pods that, if not deadheaded, will release seeds to propagate the next generation. In preparation for winter, the above-ground foliage of the perennial dies back, and the plant enters a period of dormancy, with the roots remaining alive underground. In subsequent years, the delphinium will re-emerge from its rootstock in spring to repeat its growth and reproductive cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: Delphinium 'Green Twist', a cultivar from the New Millennium Series, is most commonly propagated by seed, which allows gardeners to raise these elegant perennials at a relatively low cost compared to other methods. The best time to sow Delphinium seeds is in late winter to early spring, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures that these seeds need to germinate effectively. To propagate 'Green Twist' by seed, place the seeds on the surface of a well-drained seed starting mix and press them lightly into the soil, ensuring they are not buried deeply as they require light for germination. Keep the soil moist and at a consistent temperature of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). Germination typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots to grow on before being planted out into the garden after the risk of frost has passed.
