Dwarf Larkspur Delphinium 'Min'
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Min', commonly known as Larkspur, is a plant that showcases a striking display of colorful flowers. These blooms typically come in a vibrant blue hue but can also appear in shades of purple, pink, or white, and they are organized on a tall, upright spike that towers dramatically over the foliage. Each individual flower is beautifully shaped with a prominent spur that extends backward, giving the Larkspur its distinctive silhouette. The foliage of Larkspur 'Min' consists of deeply lobed leaves which are green in color and have a fine, almost fern-like texture. The leaves create an attractive backdrop that contrasts against the brighter floral hues, highlighting the flowers as the plant's stunning centerpiece. These leaves are distributed along the stems, rising from the base of the plant and providing a lush and full appearance to the plant's overall structure. The Larkspur 'Min' is favored for its brightly colored flowers which not only add a touch of elegance to any garden space but also draw in pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It's a plant known for its ornamental value and is often grown in garden borders, containers, or as a part of a cut flower garden to contribute an element of height and architectural interest. When in bloom, the Larkspur 'Min' emits a subtle, sweet fragrance that adds another layer of sensory pleasure to its presence in the garden.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dwarf Delphinium, Dwarf Larkspur, Mini Delphinium.
Common names
Delphinium 'Min'
ToxicityTo humans
Delphinium 'Min', commonly known as larkspur, is highly toxic to humans if any part is ingested. The toxicity is due to various alkaloids present in the plant, with the most notable being "delphinine." Symptoms of larkspur poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and muscular weakness. Severe cases can result in respiratory distress, paralysis, and even death due to cardio-respiratory collapse. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Larkspur is also poisonous to pets and can cause severe symptoms if ingested. The toxicity is similar to that in humans, as it also contains harmful alkaloids like delphinine. Pets poisoned by larkspur may show signs of drooling, nausea, vomiting, weakness, convulsions, and respiratory failure. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to paralysis and death. Immediate veterinary care is critical for pets that have consumed any part of a larkspur plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.30-0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Adds striking vertical interest and vibrant colors to gardens with its tall spires of flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites beneficial pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds into the garden, encouraging a healthy ecosystem.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides a burst of color in the spring and early summer when many tall, blue-flowered plants are not yet in bloom.
- Companion Planting: Pairs well with other perennials such as roses and peonies, helping to create aesthetically pleasing garden designs.
- Cut Flowers: Excellent for creating elegant and long-lasting floral arrangements for indoors.
- Cottage Garden Style: Ideal for the traditional cottage garden look due to its height and classic floral spikes.
- Variety of Colors: Available in a range of colors from deep blues and purples to whites and pinks, offering diverse options for garden color schemes.
- Versatility: Suitable for beds, borders, and as a specimen plant, making it a versatile addition to any garden space.
- Hardiness: Capable of surviving in various climates and once established, can tolerate periods of drought.
- Perennial Growth: Comes back year after year, reducing the need for frequent replanting and maintenance.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Delphiniums can be used as a natural dye source when their stems and flowers are boiled to release pigments, often resulting in shades of blue.
- The tall and sturdy stalks of Delphiniums can serve as natural supports for climbing plants when placed in close proximity within a garden.
- Delphinium petals can be pressed and included in decorative crafts such as bookmarks, greeting cards, or in resin jewelry to capture their vibrant hue.
- These flowers can be incorporated into a sensory garden as they add texture and visual complexity that can be appreciated by individuals with sensory processing disorders.
- As a popular feature in formal garden design, Delphiniums provide architectural height and can be used to create visually striking hedges or garden backdrops.
- Delphinium flowers can be used in potpourri mixes, contributing their color and, when fresh, a mild fragrance to the mixture.
- The cut flowers of Delphiniums can be used in floral arrangements for events and ceremonies that require a theme of deep blue or to add vertical dimension.
- In a wildlife garden, Delphiniums can attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing biodiversity.
- Delphinium seeds can be used in seed art or mosaics, as they have a distinct shape and size that can contribute to the aesthetic of the craft.
- Gardeners may use the Delphinium as companion plants to help repel certain pests due to their toxicity, though caution should be exercised as they are poisonous if ingested.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Larkspur is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Larkspur is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Cheerfulness and Goodwill: Delphinium 'Min', commonly known as Larkspur, is often associated with feelings of positivity, making it a symbol for cheerfulness and goodwill.
- Big-Heartedness: The lush, full blooms of Larkspur signify a generous spirit and an open heart, often offered as a token of affection.
- Protection: In some folklore, Larkspur is thought to ward off negative spirits and is used as a symbol of protection.
- Ardent Attachment: The intense colors and towering spikes of Larkspur blooms represent strong bonds of love, suggesting deep attachment.
- Lightness and Levity: Larkspur's airy flowers can symbolize a carefree exuberance and joy, reminding us of the lighter side of life.
WaterLarkspur 'Min' should be watered deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this means watering roughly once a week during active growth and less frequently during dormant periods. It's important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Provide the plant with about 1 gallon of water per session to ensure the root zone is adequately moistened. During hot, dry spells, watering frequency may increase, and it's crucial to ensure that the plant does not dry out completely.
LightLarkspur 'Min' thrives best in a spot that receives full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours daily. A location that provides morning light with some afternoon shade can be beneficial, especially in hotter climates. The ideal spot is one where the plant receives bright, direct sunlight to support vigorous growth and flower production.
TemperatureLarkspur 'Min' prefers moderate temperatures and can generally survive within a range of 40 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect the plant from extreme heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, as it may cause stress and impede growth.
PruningLarkspur 'Min' should be pruned to remove spent flowers, which encourages reblooming and prevents the plant from investing energy into seed production. Cutting back the plant after the first wave of blooming can promote a second bloom in the same season. The best time for pruning is immediately after the flowers have faded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Min' requires well-draining soil with added organic matter to retain moisture. A pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant to thrive.
RepottingLarkspur 'Min' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container to prevent root crowding.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Min' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable and can tolerate the varying humidity typical of outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, adequate spacing, and moist soil for indoor Larkspur 'Min'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enriched soil, and provide space for airflow for outdoor Larkspur 'Min'.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Delphinium 'Min', commonly known as Dwarf Perennial Larkspur, begins its life as a seed that germinates in late winter to early spring when the soil temperatures are cool. Upon germination, it develops a small rosette of basal leaves and, as temperatures warm, it enters a vegetative growth stage where the stem elongates, and true leaves develop. The plant then transitions to the flowering stage in early to mid-summer, producing tall spikes adorned with clustered flowers, usually in shades of blue, purple, or white. After pollination, typically by bees or butterflies attracted to the vibrant flowers, it sets seed in small capsules. The mature seeds are dispersed in late summer or autumn, and the plant goes into dormancy, with the above-ground portion dying back as the plant's energy reserves are stored in the root system. With the arrival of the next spring, the cycle begins anew as new shoots emerge from the perennial crown.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Delphinium 'Min', commonly known as the Dwarf Larkspur, is typically propagated through seed. The most popular method of propagation is done by sowing seeds directly in the ground during the spring season, after the danger of frost has passed. To ensure successful germination, it is advisable to spread the seeds over a well-prepared seed bed that has been finely raked to create a smooth surface. Lightly cover the seeds with about an eighth of an inch (approximately 3 millimeters) of soil, as larkspur seeds require darkness to germinate. Keep the area consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes about 14-21 days depending on soil temperature and conditions. Once seedlings have a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be thinned out to prevent overcrowding. This method of starting larkspur from seed is straightforward and allows for a large number of plants to be grown at a minimal cost.
