Planting Delphiniums

The latest plant to follow me home from the nursery this spring is a delphinium. This stalwart of the English Country garden likes damp, cool climates with lots of rain. We’ll see how she likes the hot Ohio summers. If you’re not familiar with this beauty, below are a few facts about Delphiniums:

* The common name from Delphinium is Larkspur

* Delphiniums are native to the Northern Hemisphere and to the high hills of tropical Africa

* There are approximately 300 different species of Delphiniums

* Most species are toxic to animals and humans

* Delphiniums can grow to be up to four foot tall

* These plants’ blossoms range from purple and blue to yellow and white

* Delphiniums bloom in the late spring or early summer

* The name comes from the Latin word for dolphin, which alludes to the shape of the blossom.

(photo credit: Delphine Menard/cc license)