tall larkspur
Delphinium exaltatum
USDA zones4 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size4 to 6 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Gentian blue
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Chalk
- Soil pH
- Circumneutral (pH 6.8-7.2)
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Tall larkspur (Delphinium exaltatum) is a perennial for borders, cut flowers, pollinator gardens, and meadows. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and average to moist, chalky soil. Gentian blue, spurred flowers open in a loose, narrow spike on a leafy stem that can reach 6 feet, and hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees visit the blooms. Deer and rabbits usually look elsewhere for a meal. It gives midsummer color and needs no special care.
Pairs well with Blue wild indigo, Sundrops, and Big bluestem.
Native range
Eastern United States.