Delphinium Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda'
ABOUT
Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda', commonly known as larkspur, is a distinctly beautiful perennial flower that boasts an impressive display of vivid blooms. This plant is characterized by its strikingly colorful spikes that are densely packed with double flowers. The flowers showcase a breathtaking range of colors, often a gradient of blues, purples, and pinks, with some varieties exhibiting white or cream hues. The petals of this larkspur are delicate and slightly ruffled, adding to the plant's overall charm and elegance. Their form is complex, with each bloom comprised of a central bee or eye—an intricate cluster of petals that give the flower its depth and unique appearance. The foliage of 'Summerfield Miranda' is equally attractive, with finely-cut leaves that have a lacy texture. These leaves are typically a rich green, forming a pleasing contrast against the vivid color of the blooms. The plant's stem is sturdy, necessary to support the weight of the dense floral spikes. This stem is upright and adds to the plant's vertical visual interest, making it an attractive addition to any garden where a pop of color and height is desired. Overall, Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda' exudes an aura of classical beauty, making it a prized specimen for gardeners looking to create a cottage garden look or simply to add some vertical drama with a splash of cool-toned colors. Its blossoms are iconic in cottage-style plantings and are often sought after for cutting gardens due to their stunning coloration and intricate blooms that stand out in floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Larkspur, Candle Larkspur, Candle Delphinium.
Common names
Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Larkspur is toxic to humans. All parts of the Larkspur contain alkaloids that can be poisonous if ingested. Symptoms of Larkspur poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and seizures. In severe cases, respiratory distress and cardiac complications can occur, which can be potentially fatal. Care should be taken to avoid ingestion and to keep the plant out of reach of children.
To pets
Larkspur is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Similar to its effects on humans, the alkaloids found in Larkspur can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, nervous system symptoms, and cardiotoxicity in pets. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, and potentially, seizures. In severe cases, ingestion of this plant can be fatal to pets, thus it is important to prevent access to this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda' is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its tall spikes of vibrant blue flowers, this delphinium variety adds dramatic vertical interest and a splash of color to any garden space.
- Long blooming period: 'Summerfield Miranda' blooms over a long period in late spring to early summer, providing a lasting display of flowers.
- Cut flower use: The blooms make excellent cut flowers, allowing for beautiful floral arrangements to be created for indoor enjoyment.
- Cottage garden staple: This plant is a classic choice for cottage gardens, contributing to a traditional and romantic garden style.
- Complementary companion: The plant pairs well with other perennial flowers, such as roses and peonies, enhancing overall garden design.
- Seasonal interest: In addition to its blooming period, the plant's foliage adds interest to the garden throughout the growing season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden photography: Delphiniums, with their striking colors and tall spires, add vertical interest and vivid hues to garden photography, making them excellent subjects for photographers interested in capturing the beauty of ornamental plants.
- Dye production: Historically, some delphinium species have been used to produce blue dyes, which could be a creative and natural way to tint fabrics or other materials, though it's not a common practice with modern varieties.
- Art inspiration: The vibrant colors and dramatic stature of the delphinium can serve as inspiration to artists, who might incorporate their likeness into paintings, drawings, or other artistic media.
- Fairy gardens: Due to their whimsical appearance, delphiniums like Summerfield Miranda can be used in miniature fairy garden designs, contributing to a sense of magic and enchantment.
- Wedding decor: With their towering presence and range of colors, delphiniums can be used in floral arrangements or as part of the decor in weddings for a touch of elegance and height.
- Teaching tool: Delphiniums, because of their specific growing requirements, serve as a good teaching example for horticulture students learning about plant care, especially the needs of perennials in different climates.
- Plant pairing education: These plants can be used to demonstrate principles of plant pairing in garden design, showing how to match them with complementary or contrasting plants for desired visual effects.
- Motif in design: The floral pattern of delphiniums can inspire motifs in textile or wallpaper design, harnessing their natural beauty in interior decoration.
- Theme gardens: Delphiniums can be used as a key element in theme gardens, such as 'blue gardens' where the color theme revolves around blue-flowering plants.
- Culinary decoration: Though not typically considered edible, petals of some delphinium species may be used as a decorative, non-toxic garnish for culinary dishes in high-end cuisine.
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, including the 'Summerfield Miranda', often symbolize an openness to new experiences and opportunities due to their tall, reaching blooms.
- Protection: In some traditions, delphiniums are believed to ward off negative spirits and protect against harm, making them a symbol of protection.
- Arbitrary Beauty: The striking beauty of 'Summerfield Miranda' is often associated with a sense of wonder and the celebration of beauty in its most natural and spontaneous form.
- Lightness and Levity: The airy quality of delphinium blooms can represent a carefree attitude and a lightness in spirit.
- Big-Heartedness: The lush, full clusters of 'Summerfield Miranda' blooms are sometimes seen as a symbol of generosity and having a big heart.
- Remembrance: Delphiniums are also associated with remembrance and are often planted in memory of lost loved ones.
WaterLarkspur, commonly referred to as Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda', prefers consistently moist soil, so regular watering is crucial especially during hot, dry periods. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to keep foliage dry. During rainy seasons or cooler weather, reduce the amount of water to match the plant's needs. It's important not to overwater, as larkspur does not like soggy conditions.
LightLarkspur thrives in locations that receive full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Plant Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda' in a spot that is exposed to morning sun and has some light afternoon shade in hotter climates to protect it from intense heat. Adequate sunlight is essential for the plant to grow vigorously and produce its best blooms.
TemperatureLarkspur enjoys moderate temperatures and can generally withstand light frosts. Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda' does best in areas with daytime temperatures ranging between 65°F and 75°F. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to 40°F and maximum temperatures up to the mid-80s, but consistently high temperatures may shorten the bloom time and overall vigor of the plant.
PruningLarkspur benefits from regular pruning to promote bushier growth and more blooms. For Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda', prune spent flower stalks back to the base of the plant to encourage a second flush of blooms. In late fall or early spring, cut back the entire plant to ground level to maintain a tidy appearance and help prevent disease. The best time for pruning is after the first wave of flowering or in early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLarkspur 'Summerfield Miranda' prefers a soil mix that is well-draining, with a rich organic content such as peat, compost, or well-rotted manure. The best pH for this soil mix should be slightly alkaline to neutral, ideally ranging from 6.8 to 7.5. A combination of garden soil, compost, and a draining agent like perlite or sand can create an optimal environment for root growth.
RepottingLarkspurs, being mostly perennials, do not frequently require repotting. However, if they outgrow their current container or the soil becomes exhausted, repotting can be done in the early spring every 2-3 years or as necessary.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur 'Summerfield Miranda' prosper in moderate humidity levels. It's important to maintain average air humidity around the plant without creating overly damp conditions which can lead to fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temperatures, and consistent moisture indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, provide moist, fertile soil, and stake tall stems.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Larkspur cultivar, Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda', begins with seed germination, usually in spring, under cool, moist conditions. The seeds develop into small seedlings with a set of true leaves following initial sprouts. As the plant grows, a strong root system develops, and it enters a vegetative state with tall, sturdy stems and deeply lobed leaves. Flowering occurs in early to mid-summer, showcasing tall spikes of densely packed purple-blue flowers with contrasting white bees (centers). After pollination, the plant will set seeds, which if not collected, will drop to the soil and potentially begin a new generation. Following the flowering period, the plant may experience dormancy or die back in winter, especially in cold climates, only to regrow from the rootstock or fresh seeds the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: Delphinium 'Summerfield Miranda', commonly known as a type of Larkspur, is often propagated through seed sowing. The best time for sowing seeds is typically in late winter to early spring. To propagate by seed, soil should first be well-prepared to a fine texture. Sow the seeds thinly and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil to about 1/8 inch (about 3 millimeters) deep. The seeds need light to germinate, so ensure they are not buried too deeply. They should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks at a temperature of about 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). Transplant the seedlings to individual pots when they are large enough to handle and later move them to their final position in the garden when the risk of frost has passed.
