Larkspur Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter'
ABOUT
The Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter', commonly known as Larkspur, is a striking plant characterized by its showy blooms. The flowers present a delicate blend of soft pink hues, creating a gentle and appealing display that's easy on the eyes. Each individual bloom is comprised of numerous small petals, artistically arranged into a dense, elongated spike that projects an image of both elegance and robustness. These spikes are adorned with multiple blossoms that open progressively from the bottom up. The foliage of Larkspur 'Jenny Agutter' is also noteworthy, with leaves that are deeply lobed and have a fine, almost fern-like appearance. The green of the leaves contrasts with the pink of the flowers, providing a lush backdrop that accentuates the vibrancy of the blooming spikes. The overall aesthetic of the plant is one of classic garden charm, making it a popular choice for adding vertical interest and a touch of romantic color to garden beds and borders.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter'
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, including the Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter', is highly toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids such as delphinine, which can cause serious health issues or even be fatal. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle spasms, paralysis, and potentially result in respiratory failure or death if a significant amount is consumed.
To pets
Larkspur, including the Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter', is also toxic to pets. The entire plant contains dangerous alkaloids that can affect an animal's nervous system. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, bloat, frequent urination, weakness, paralysis, and even seizures. If untreated, consumption of larkspur can lead to respiratory failure and death. It is essential to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
5 feet [1.52 meters]
Spread
2 feet [0.61 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter', commonly known as Larkspur, features stunning spires of semidouble, pink flowers that add height and color to any garden space.
- Attracts Pollinators: Larkspurs are known for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems by promoting pollination.
- Seasonal Interest: With a typical bloom time in early to mid-summer, Larkspur can provide a vibrant display when many other plants may not be in peak bloom.
- Versatility: Larkspurs can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens, due to their height and structure.
- Cut Flowers: The long stems and beautiful blooms make Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter' an excellent choice for fresh bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Garden Structure: The tall, upright habit of Larkspur can provide vertical interest and act as a backdrop for shorter plants in 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- Photography subjects: Delphiniums are often used in photography for their striking blue color and the way they add height and structure to floral arrangements.
- Natural fabric dyes: Delphinium flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, producing various shades of blue.
- Artistic inspiration: The uniqueness of the Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter' inspires artists and painters to capture its beauty on canvas.
- Education: Botanical gardens and educational institutions may use Delphiniums to teach about plant growth, pollination, and horticultural practices.
- Garden wildlife habitat: Delphiniums can provide a habitat for beneficial insects, contributing to the biodiversity of garden ecosystems.
- Theme gardens: These flowers can be included in 'blue-themed' gardens, or gardens designed to showcase a particular color palette.
- Theatrical sets: Delphiniums can be used as part of the set design in theatre productions to create natural-looking scenes or magical settings.
- Wedding decorations: Due to their elegance and height, Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter' can be included in wedding decorations and bridal bouquets.
- Culinary decoration: While not edible, the flowers can be used for decorative purposes on desserts and cakes, if removed before consumption.
- Feng Shui: Some practitioners might use Delphiniums in specific areas of the garden to balance energies according to Feng Shui principles.
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 are known to symbolize an invitation to adventure and the willingness to try new things, due to their bold and striking appearance.
- Protection: In some traditions, it's believed that delphiniums can ward off dangers and protect from negative influences, perhaps derived from the ancient belief that the flowers repelled scorpions.
- Ardent Attachment: Delphinium is often used to express a strong bond of love, representing a deep, heart-centered connection.
- Big-heartedness: The generous bloom of the delphinium can symbolize a large-heartedness or an abundance of feelings.
- Lightness and Levity: The airy nature of the delphinium’s flowers are sometimes associated with a sense of lightness and fun, encouraging joy and a positive outlook.
- Memorial: Delphiniums are also used in floral arrangements to honor the memory of loved ones, with their vibrant hues and stature suggesting remembrance and respect.
WaterLarkspur, the common name for Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter,' prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. It is generally best to water deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time. During hot or dry periods, you may need to water twice a week, ensuring the soil is moistened to a depth of at least 6 inches. Always allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Adjust the watering frequency based on rainfall, temperature, and soil conditions.
LightLarkspur thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For optimal growth and flower production, position your Larkspur where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If in a particularly hot climate, afternoon shade can help protect the plant from the intense heat of late day sun.
TemperatureLarkspur prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, prolonged exposure to temperatures below this can be harmful. Ideal growing conditions include cool nights and warm days, which are characteristic of its natural growing season in spring to early summer.
PruningPruning larkspur helps to promote vigorous growth and prevent disease by increasing air circulation. After the first flush of blooms diminishes, cut the flower stalks back by one-third to encourage a second bloom period. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to maintain a tidy appearance and improve the chance for re-blooming. The best time for cutting back plants is in late summer or early fall after blooming has finished for the season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Jenny Agutter' prefers a well-draining soil mix that is enriched with organic matter; a blend of loamy soil, compost or well-rotted manure, and a little sand to improve drainage works well. The ideal soil pH for larkspur should be slightly alkaline, around 7.0 to 7.5.
RepottingLarkspurs are generally not repotted as they are perennial plants best suited to outdoor gardens. If growing in containers, repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot, ideally in the spring.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Jenny Agutter' is adaptable to typical outdoor humidity conditions but does not require high humidity. Average ambient humidity is generally sufficient for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleDelphinium 'Jenny Agutter', commonly known as Larkspur, starts its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in spring or early summer. When conditions are right, the seed germinates, developing roots and a small shoot that will grow into a young seedling. The seedling matures into a vegetative plant, forming a rosette of basal leaves, and as temperatures become favorable, it experiences a growth spurt in which a tall flowering spike emerges. During the flowering stage, which occurs in early summer, the plant produces clusters of semi-double, soft blue flowers attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into follicles containing seeds that mature and are eventually dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. During the fall or with the onset of cold weather, the plant will die back, entering a period of dormancy, unless it is grown as an annual, in which case its life cycle concludes after seed dispersal.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: Delphinium 'Jenny Agutter', commonly known as Larkspur, is typically propagated by seed. The best time to sow Delphinium seeds is in late winter to early spring. To propagate by seeds, sprinkle them on the surface of a pre-moistened seed-starting mix and gently press them into the soil without covering them, as they need light to germinate. Maintain consistent moisture and a temperature of about 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius). Seedlings usually appear in 14 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting them out in the garden after the risk of frost has passed.
