Larkspur Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future' (New Century Hybrids)
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Rosy Future' (New Century Hybrids) presents itself with elegant flower spikes that show an array of striking pink blooms, creating a captivating visual display. Each flower within the spike is delicately shaped with a central bee or eye that may contrast in color, often a darker or lighter hue of pink or a different complementary color, adding depth and texture to the display. The petals are poised and often slightly ruffled or semi-double, contributing to the plant's overall lush appearance. The foliage of 'Rosy Future' is typically a deeply lobed, rich green, forming a dense and bushy base from which the flower spikes majestically arise. The textures of the leaves may vary from smooth to a slightly hairy nature, providing an interesting contrast to the smoothness of the petals. With a sturdy and upright habit, 'Rosy Future' makes a bold statement in garden spaces, attracting onlookers with its vertical lines and vibrant flowers that sway gently with the breeze. The plant has a neat form overall, with multiple flower spikes potentially blooming at once, creating a bouquet-like effect that is common to Delphinium cultivars. The overall appearance of this garden favorite is one of classic charm and enduring beauty, making it a sought-after addition to many perennial borders.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Larkspur, Delphinium
Common names
Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future' (New Century Hybrids).
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur, specifically the Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future', contains toxic alkaloids such as delphinine, which can be poisonous to humans if ingested. The symptoms of larkspur poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and can also affect the neuromuscular system, potentially leading to respiratory failure and death in severe cases.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future' contains toxic compounds that can lead to symptoms such as drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, stiffness, and weakness. In severe cases, consumption can lead to cardiac failure and death. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if a pet is suspected to have ingested this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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- Aesthetic Appeal: Delphinium 'Rosy Future' adds a dramatic height and beautiful rosy-purple flowers to a garden, providing visual interest and enhancing the overall landscape design.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Versatility: This plant can be used in garden borders, cottage gardens, or as a backdrop for lower-growing flowers, offering design flexibility.
- Seasonal Color: With its summer blooming season, Delphinium 'Rosy Future' provides vibrant colors when many other plants have finished their bloom cycle.
- Cut Flowers: The long stems and striking flowers make excellent cut flowers for arrangements and bouquets.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography: Delphinium is often used in floral photography for its striking color and tall spires, creating an impressive background or focal point.
- Dye Production: The vibrant petals can be used to produce natural dyes for textiles, offering shades of blue and purple.
- Crafts: Dried delphinium flowers are used in crafting, such as in making bookmarks, greeting cards, or pressed flower art.
- Education: Botany students and educators may use the Delphinium plant for studies on pollination and plant structure due to its distinctive morphology.
- Companion Planting: Delphinium can be planted alongside vegetable gardens as an ornamental to attract pollinators.
- Garden Design: Because of its height and color, it's used to create vertical interest and color-themed gardens.
- Fantasy Costumes: Delphinium flowers may be incorporated into headpieces or costumes for festivals or fantasy-themed events.
- Ice Cubes: Petals can be frozen into ice cubes for decorative, edible additions to cold beverages at special events.
- Confetti: Petals can be used as biodegradable confetti for weddings or eco-friendly celebrations.
- Screensavers and Wallpapers: High-resolution images of the Delphinium plant might be used as a natural, serene background for screensavers and wallpapers.
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 height which, in folklore, was believed to ward off evil spirits and dangers.
- Openness to New Experiences: The 'New Century' part of its name suggests an opening to new beginnings and the future, making it symbolic of embracing change and the unknown.
- Beauty: Delphiniums are known for their striking beauty and elegant form, making them a symbol of visual appeal and grace.
- Heavenly: The common name “delphinium” is derived from the Greek word “delphis,” which means dolphin, referring to the shape of the buds and possibly its sky-blue color, leading to its association with heavenly qualities.
- Lightheartedness: The airiness of the flowers is often linked with a sense of joy and carefree attitude.
- Arrogance: In contrast, delphiniums can sometimes represent arrogance or haughtiness, likely due to their towering presence in a garden.
WaterLarkspurs, including the Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future', need consistent moisture and should be watered whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Aim to water deeply once or twice a week, providing about one to two gallons per plant depending on the weather conditions and soil type. During hot or windy weather, they may need more frequent watering. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew and other fungal diseases, instead water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.
LightLarkspurs thrive in full sun to light shade, so the Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future' should be placed in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that offers morning sunlight with some afternoon shade would be ideal to protect the plant from the intense heat of the day.
TemperatureLarkspur plants including Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future' prefer cooler climates and can handle temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit without damage. They perform best in temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and can start to experience stress when temperatures soar above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningLarkspurs benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms, so prune the Delphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future' by cutting back spent flower spikes to just above a set of leaves or a new flower shoot. Deadheading after the initial bloom can encourage a second bloom period. Trim the plant back after flowering has ceased in the fall or early spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Larkspur is well-draining, fertile, and retains moisture. A mix of loam, compost, and sharp sand or perlite is often recommended. Soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingLarkspur, being a perennial, doesn't typically require repotting as it is often grown directly in the garden; however, if grown in containers, repotting may be necessary every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to the ambient outdoor humidity found in most temperate climates. Excessively high humidity can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full light, cool temps, and good airflow for Larkspurs.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, in fertile well-draining soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleDelphinium × cultorum 'Rosy Future', commonly known as Larkspur, begins its life cycle from seeds that require a period of stratification or cold treatment before germination. Upon sowing in early spring and exposure to suitable temperatures, the seeds germinate and the plant develops a rosette of basal leaves. As it matures, the stem elongates, and the Larkspur produces tall spikes bearing clusters of rosy-purple flowers, typically during late spring to early summer. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, which are dispersed by wind or by gardeners collecting them for propagation. The Larkspur is a perennial, though some may treat it as a biennial, dying back to the ground after flowering to overwinter and re-emerge the following spring. With proper care, such as deadheading to prolong blooming and prevent self-sowing, and protection from harsh winter conditions, the cycle can repeat for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Delphinium 'Rosy Future', a member of the New Century Hybrids, is most commonly propagated by seed. The best time to sow Delphinium seeds is in late winter to early spring, allowing for a period of cold stratification which improves germination rates. To propagate by seed, prepare a planting medium in a tray or pot, ensuring it is well-draining and moist. Sow the seeds on the surface and lightly cover with a thin layer of medium or vermiculite, as Delphinium seeds require some light to germinate. Keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged, and provide temperatures of about 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius). Germination should occur in 2 to 3 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle and after the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted into the garden maintaining proper spacing to accommodate their mature size.
