Larkspur Delphinium (Belladonna Group) 'Völkerfrieden'
ABOUT
The Delphinium 'Völkerfrieden', often referred to by its common name larkspur, is a captivating perennial that adds a splash of color to any garden. This plant is known for its strikingly beautiful flowers, which are arranged in a dense, towering spike. The blossoms themselves have a classic delphinium shape, boasting numerous petal-like parts that are often described as dolphin-like in appearance, emanating from a central spur at the back of the flower. The blooms of 'Völkerfrieden' are particularly remarkable for their color, which is a radiant shade of sky blue, captivating the eye and lending a cooling effect to the garden palette. The foliage of this variety of larkspur is made up of deeply cut, palmately lobed leaves that are a glossy, dark green in color, providing a lush backdrop that makes the blue flowers truly pop. The overall structure of the Delphinium 'Völkerfrieden' is elegant and upright, with the flower spikes rising gracefully above the bulk of the plant's foliage. This combination of stately blooms and rich, verdant greenery gives the Delphinium 'Völkerfrieden' a beautiful, textured appearance that is both bold and delicate, making it a prized selection for borders, beds, and as a striking accent in floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Belladonna Delphinium, Balkan Larkspur, Volkerfrieden Delphinium.
Common names
Delphinium x belladonna 'Völkerfrieden'.
ToxicityTo humans
Larkspur is a plant that is highly toxic to humans if ingested. Its toxicity is due to various alkaloids present in the plant with the primary one being delphinine. Symptoms of larkspur poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and muscular weakness. Severe cases can lead to respiratory difficulties, paralysis, and potentially death from respiratory arrest or cardiac complications. Immediate medical attention is crucial if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Larkspur is similarly toxic to pets as it is to humans. It contains alkaloids like delphinine which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea, if ingested by an animal. In pets, symptoms can also include neuromuscular paralysis leading to respiratory failure, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. It is imperative to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant and to seek veterinary care immediately if poisoning is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Value: 'Völkerfrieden' adds striking blue-violet flowers to gardens, enhancing the visual appeal of the landscape.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Cottage Garden Style: It suits traditional cottage garden designs, contributing to a charming, old-world garden aesthetic.
- Vertical Interest: With its tall spires, it adds vertical interest to flower beds, borders, and garden designs.
- Cut Flowers: Makes excellent cut flowers for vases and floral arrangements due to its long stems and vibrant blooms.
- Seasonal Color: It blooms in late spring to early summer, providing color when many other plants are not in peak bloom.
- Companion Planting: Combines well with other perennials and annuals in mixed borders, complementing a variety of garden plants.
- Easy Propagation: Can be propagated by seed, allowing gardeners to grow new plants and expand their garden displays.
- Hardiness: It is generally hardy in appropriate climates, making it a reliable choice for many gardeners.
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 in natural dye production, offering shades of blue to fabrics depending on the mordant used.
- The tall and striking spikes of Delphiniums provide a structural element in garden design, helping to add height and depth to floral arrangements and borders.
- Delphinium petals can be used in potpourri mixes for a subtle hint of color and an interesting texture contrast to other dried flowers and botanicals.
- These flowers can be used as a natural pest deterrent in the garden, as some pests are repelled by their toxins when planted among vegetables.
- In the past, Delphiniums were used in traditional ceremonies and rites, symbolizing protection and invulnerability due to their toxic properties.
- The stalks of Delphinium plants can be used as fiber for paper making, providing an alternative use for pruned or spent stalks in craft projects.
- Delphinium flowers are used in the art of pressed flowers for crafting and decoration, preserving their color and form in glass frames or bookmarks.
- These plants serve as a food source for certain butterfly and moth larvae, playing a role in supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Dried Delphiniums can be incorporated into homemade sachets that give a delicate scent to drawers and closets while deterring insects.
- Sometimes, these flowers are used in winter gardens, as their dried stems and seed pods can provide visual interest and texture during the colder months.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Delphinium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Delphinium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Open-heartedness - Delphiniums often symbolize an open heart and ardent attachment, making them representative of welcoming feelings and love.
- Protection - The tall and protective stance of these plants is often associated with protection against dangers and threats.
- Lightness and Levity - With their lofty spires, delphiniums can evoke feelings of lightness and a carefree attitude, often encouraging people to not take life too seriously.
- Heavenly Aspiration - Delphiniums, pointing upwards as they grow, traditionally symbolize striving towards the divine and reaching for one's highest aspirations.
- Arbitrary - The word "Delphinium" comes from the Greek word "delphis," meaning dolphin, due to the flower's resemblance to the shape of a dolphin. This sometimes lends a playful, arbitrary symbolism to the flower.
WaterBelladonna Delphiniums should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During hot or dry spells, you may need to water twice a week. When watering, avoid wetting the foliage to prevent disease, and aim for the base of the plant. A good rule of thumb is to provide about one inch of water weekly, which translates to about 0.6 gallons for a small to medium-sized plant. During the growing season, especially when flower spikes are forming, consistent moisture is crucial.
LightBelladonna Delphinium thrives in full sun, which means it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot for this plant would be in a garden bed that faces south or west to ensure ample sunlight throughout the day. However, in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent heat stress.
TemperatureBelladonna Delphinium prefers moderate temperatures and does well in a range of 50°F to 75°F. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to 20°F but should be protected from frost. In hot weather, the plant may not perform well if temperatures exceed 85°F for extended periods.
PruningPrune Belladonna Delphiniums after the first flush of blooms to encourage a second blooming period. Deadheading spent flowers promotes new growth and prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production. Cut back the flower stalks to the ground in late fall to prepare the plant for winter. Pruning should be done yearly.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Larkspur is one that is rich, well-draining, and loamy with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A blend of garden soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite to improve drainage makes an ideal growing medium for this plant.
RepottingLarkspur, typically grown as perennials, do not require frequent repotting. They can be left undisturbed for several years unless the plant outgrows its space or the soil needs replenishment.
Humidity & MistingLarkspur thrives in average humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments when planted outdoors in its natural environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample light, proper soil mix, and good drainage.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, regular watering, and staking.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Larkspur 'Völkerfrieden' begins its life cycle when seeds are planted in fertile, well-draining soil and germinate, typically in the spring. Seedlings emerge and develop into juvenile plants with characteristic dissected leaves, needing plenty of sunlight and moderate water to grow. As the larkspur matures, it forms tall spikes with deeply cut leaves and begins to produce its vivid blue flowers, which are particularly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies during the blooming period in late spring to early summer. After pollination, the flowers give way to seed pods which eventually dry and release seeds for the next generation. Once the plant has set seed, it may enter a period of dormancy, especially in regions with cold winters, dying back to the ground after frost. The plant reemerges from its root system the following spring if it is a perennial variety, restarting its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Delphiniums, such as the Belladonna Group 'Völkerfrieden', can be propagated through seeds, but the most popular method is division, typically performed in the early spring as new growth begins or in the late summer after the flowering period has ended. During division, gardeners carefully dig up the plant and use a sharp knife or spade to divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring each section has at least one new growth bud. These sections are then replanted at the same soil depth they were previously growing and watered thoroughly. This method not only helps to propagate new plants but also invigorates older clumps that may have grown too large or are starting to die out in the center. After replanting, it's crucial to keep the soil evenly moist to encourage root development and help the new divisions establish successfully.
