Delphinium, also commonly known as larkspur, is a beautiful and vibrant plant that comes in various types and varieties. These plants belong to the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae, and they are native to the Northern Hemisphere. Delphiniums are known for their tall spikes of flowers, which can range in color from blue, purple, pink, white, and even yellow.
There are several different types of delphiniums, each with its own unique characteristics and growing requirements. Let’s explore some of the most popular types:
1. Pacific Giants: This type of delphinium is known for its impressive height, reaching up to 6 feet tall. Pacific Giants produce large flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white. They are often used as focal points in garden borders or as cut flowers.
2. Belladonna Group: Belladonna delphiniums are known for their delicate, pastel-colored flowers. They are shorter in height, usually reaching about 3 to 4 feet. These plants are perfect for adding a touch of softness and elegance to any garden.
3. New Millennium Hybrids: These hybrids are a result of careful breeding, resulting in improved flower colors and stronger stems. New Millennium delphiniums come in a wide range of colors, including shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. They also have a longer bloom time, providing color in the garden for an extended period.
4. Guardian Series: The Guardian series of delphiniums are bred for their compact growth habit, making them perfect for smaller gardens or containers. They reach a height of around 2 to 3 feet and produce vibrant flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white.
5. Magic Fountains Series: Magic Fountains delphiniums are dwarf varieties that grow to about 2 to 3 feet tall. They are known for their sturdy, well-branched stems and come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. These plants are great for adding vertical interest to flower beds or containers.
It’s worth mentioning that delphiniums can be either annuals, biennials, or perennials, depending on the variety. Annual delphiniums complete their life cycle in one season, biennials take two seasons to complete their life cycle, and perennials come back year after year. Knowing the specific type of delphinium you have will help you understand its growing requirements and lifespan.
In my own gardening experience, I have had the pleasure of growing Pacific Giants delphiniums in my backyard. Their towering spikes of blue and purple flowers added a stunning vertical element to my garden. However, I found that they required staking to support their tall stems, as they can be prone to toppling over in strong winds. Nonetheless, the effort was well worth it, as the delphiniums provided a breathtaking display of color throughout the summer.
Delphiniums offer a wide array of options for gardeners looking to add a burst of color and vertical interest to their landscapes. Whether you prefer the majestic heights of Pacific Giants or the delicate charm of Belladonna varieties, there is a delphinium out there to suit every gardening style and preference.
