Larkspur Delphinium 'Jill Curley'

☠ Toxic to humans

🐾 Toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Hard-care

ABOUT

Delphinium 'Jill Curley' presents a captivating display of lush green foliage from which striking flower spikes emerge. These spires proudly showcase a series of beautifully formed blooms, noted for their vibrant colors that can range from a soft pastel to a deep, rich hue. Each individual flower on the spike is characterized by a classic, almost dolphin-like shape for which Delphiniums are renowned, complete with a prominent 'bee' or central tuft of stamens that contrast with the petals. The plant's leaves exhibit a finely dissected appearance, reminiscent of a lacy texture, contributing to the overall delicate and yet impressive aesthetic of the specimen. These perennial beauties are a sight to behold, often serving as a standout feature in gardens for their notable blossoms which draw admirers and pollinators alike.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Synonyms
  Larkspur, Delphinium
- Common names
  Delphinium 'Jill Curley'
Toxicity
- To humans
  Larkspur is known to be poisonous to humans. All parts of the plant contain various alkaloids, predominantly delphinine, which can cause serious toxic reactions if ingested. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, paralysis, seizures, and cardiac complications like bradycardia or arrhythmias. In severe cases, consumption can be fatal due to respiratory paralysis or cardiac failure.
- To pets
  Larkspur is also poisonous to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. The same toxic alkaloids that affect humans can cause similar symptoms in animals. In pets, signs of larkspur poisoning may include drooling, bloat, frequent urination, diarrhea, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, seizures, difficulty breathing, and cardiac failure. Consumption of larkspur can lead to death in pets, especially in horses, which are particularly sensitive to the plant's toxicity.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Deciduous
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Blue
- Height
  4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
- Spread
  2 feet (0.6 meters)
- Plant type
  Herb
- Hardiness zones
  3
- Native area
  Europe

Benefits

General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: Delphinium 'Jill Curley', commonly known as larkspur, has tall and striking flower spikes that add vertical interest and a splash of color to gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms of the larkspur attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, aiding in pollination of the garden.
- Cottage Garden Feel: Larkspur is often associated with the charm of traditional cottage gardens, bringing a romantic, old-world feel to landscaping.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers of Delphinium 'Jill Curley' make excellent cut flowers and can be used to create stunning floral arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Adding larkspur to a garden provides seasonal interest through the spring and summer months with its showy blooms.
- Versatility in Design: Larkspur can be used in a variety of garden designs, from informal wildflower meadows to more structured perennial borders.
- Color Variety: Delphiniums are available in an array of colors, which can complement a wide range of color schemes in garden design.
Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Delphinium can be used in photography to add natural beauty to portrait backgrounds or to create colorful, floral-themed photo shoots.
- Dried stalks of Delphinium can be utilized in crafting, such as in the creation of wreaths or as a component in mixed-media art projects.
- Fresh Delphinium blossoms can serve as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding shades of blue and purple depending on the mordant used.
- Delphinium petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures to enhance the aroma and add a touch of color.
- During storytelling or theatrical performances, branches of Delphinium can be used as part of the set design to evoke a whimsical or magical atmosphere.
- Delphinium seeds, when collected responsibly, can be used in educational environments to teach children about plant growth and gardening.
- In the culinary arts, while being cautious with consumption due to potential toxicity, the petals can be used for decorative purposes on desserts and special dishes in high-end cuisine.
- Delphinium can be used as a natural confetti, with the petals sprinkled at celebrations such as weddings, offering a biodegradable option.
- The plant can be incorporated into homemade, natural insect repellents by utilizing its strong scent to deter pests.
- Delphinium's tall and colorful spikes may also be used as natural markers in a garden to signify different sections or as a means of adding vertical interest.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Heavenly Aspiration: Delphiniums are often associated with striving to reach one's goals and aspirations because of their towering spires and upward direction.
- Protection: Historically, delphiniums were believed to ward off scorpions and other dangers, symbolizing a protective quality.
- Open Heart: The open bloom of the delphinium represents an open heart and ardent attachment.
- New Opportunities: Their growth towards the sky can symbolize embracing new opportunities and experiences.
- Lightness and Levity: Delphiniums can symbolize a carefree attitude and a sense of joy due to their playful colors and delicate structure.

💧

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every year

Repotting

🌱️

Spring-Early Summer

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
Larkspur requires consistent moisture, particularly during the growing season. Water deeply once or twice a week, making sure to saturate the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches each time. The goal is to maintain a uniformly moist soil but not waterlogged; providing about 1 inch of water weekly is typically sufficient. Reduce watering frequency when rainfall is abundant. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent disease; direct the water at the base of the plant and early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Light
Larkspurs thrive in full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for larkspurs would be in an area that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the intense afternoon sun in very hot climates. However, they can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in warmer regions where the midday sun may be too harsh.
Temperature
Larkspur prefers cooler temperatures and can usually grow well within a temperature range of 40 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's hardy and can survive minimum temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to heat above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental. The ideal temperatures for larkspur are generally between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.
Pruning
Larkspurs benefit from pruning to encourage a second bloom and maintain a tidy appearance. After the first flush of flowers has faded, cut the flower stalks back to the ground; this can stimulate a second flowering period in late summer or early fall. Also, remove any dead or damaged foliage and stems to maintain plant health. Pruning is generally done mid-summer, after the first bloom.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Larkspur 'Jill Curley' thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. A blend of equal parts garden soil, compost, and perlite or vermiculite is ideal.
Repotting
Larkspurs generally don't need frequent repotting, but Delphinium 'Jill Curley' can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & Misting
Delphinium 'Jill Curley' prefers moderate humidity but can tolerate a range of conditions, except for very dry air.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Use bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
- Outdoor
  Plant in full sun to part shade, in fertile, moist soil.
- Hardiness zone
  3-7 USDA
Life cycle
Delphinium 'Jill Curley', commonly known as larkspur, begins its life as a seed that germinates in cool temperatures. Once sprouted, the seedling grows into a young plant with a rosette of basal leaves. As it matures, the larkspur develops a strong central stem and produces tall spikes of colorful flowers usually in shades of blue, pink, or white, which attract pollinators during late spring to early summer. After pollination, the flowers develop into follicles containing seeds that, when mature, are dispersed to start a new generation. In colder climates, the plant dies back to its crown at the end of the growing season and enters a period of dormancy over the winter. In the spring, it emerges again from the overwintering crown to complete the annual life cycle.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring-Early Summer
- Delphinium 'Jill Curley', often referred to as larkspur, is best propagated through seed sowing. The ideal time for sowing larkspur seeds is in late winter to early spring, when the soil can be worked and is still cool. To propagate, first stratify the seeds by chilling them in the refrigerator for about two weeks to enhance germination. After stratification, sow the seeds directly onto well-draining soil and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil, around 1/8 inch (approximately 3 millimeters) deep. Ensure that the seeds receive consistent moisture and are in a location with full sun to part shade. Germination should occur within two to three weeks if conditions are optimal. To increase the likelihood of success, maintain the seedlings in a protected environment until they are strong enough to transplant outdoors.