Blue Delphinium
The blue delphinium is a stunning flower and a popular choice for perennial gardens. It is known for its tall, stately spires of flowers, which can come in various shades of blue, from light lavender to deep indigo.
Delphinium elatum
Delphinium elatum, also known as the alpine delphinium, guardian lavender, or candle larkspur, is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. Native to Europe and temperate Asia originated in Europe and temperate Asia.
This perennial is known for its tall, stately spires of blue or purple flowers that bloom in summer. It can grow up to 1.8 meters (5.9 feet) tall and has deeply divided leaves.
Here are some key characteristics of Delphinium elatum:
- Height: 1.8 meters (5.9 feet)
- Spread: 2.00 to 3.00 feet
- Bloom Time: June to July
- Light: Full sun
- Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
- Water: Medium moisture
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7
Belphinium grandiflorum
- Benefits of Citronella Plants:
- Mosquito Repellent: Citronella plants are famous for their mosquito-repelling properties. Their citrusy scent helps keep pesky insects away.
- Aromatic: The leaves emit a pleasant fragrance, making them great for outdoor spaces.
- Easy to Grow: These plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardens.
- Healthier Air: Like other plants, they contribute to better air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
- Disadvantages:
- Sensitive to Cold: Citronella plants are frost-sensitive. Protect them during colder months.
- Not Edible: Despite the citrus scent, they are not edible like true citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) used in essential oils.
- Propagation:
- Stem Cuttings: Propagate by taking stem cuttings from mature plants.
- Root Division: Divide established plants during repotting.
- Repotting:
- When: Repot every 2-3 years or when roots outgrow the pot.
- Why: Fresh soil provides nutrients and more space for root growth.
- How: Choose a slightly larger pot with drainage holes. After repotting, use new potting mix and give it plenty of water.
- Diseases:
- Generally resilient, but overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot or fungal infections. Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
- Vastu Considerations:
- Citronella plants are not specifically associated with Vastu Shastra. However, their positive energy and pleasant aroma can enhance any space.
Light blue Delphinium
Delphinium elatum Delphina™ ‘Light Blue White Bee’ is a delightful dwarf herbaceous perennial. Its sturdy flower spikes are densely packed with sky-blue blooms adorned with white bees. These charming flowers bloom for weeks from early to mid-summer, and the best part? They don’t require staking! Plant them in groups of 3-5 for an impressive display.
Additionally, if you’re looking for bulk DIY flowers, the Light Blue Delphinium is perfect for garden-inspired arrangements. Its long stems bear dainty, star-shaped blooms with a light blue hue, yellow mouths, and ivory undertones. Imagine the essence of a clear summer sky captured in floral form!.
Delphinium flowers
Delphiniums are a delightful group of plants known for their tall, showy flower spikes. Here’s what you need to know about growing and caring for these stunning blooms:
- Varieties and Colors:
- Delphiniums come in various shades, including true blue, purple, lavender, pink, white (such as Delphinium elatum), scarlet (Delphinium cardinale), and yellow (Delphinium luteum).
- The central smaller flowers, often called “bees” or “eyes,” can appear in white, brown, tan, black, or striped patterns.
- Growing Conditions:
- Sun: Delphiniums thrive in full sun (6-8 hours daily). However, they don’t do well in dry heat. Morning sun with light afternoon shade during hot weather can enhance flowering.
- Soil: Well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH (6.5-7.0) yields the best results. Add compost at planting time for these heavy feeders.
- Water: Regular watering, especially during hot weather, is essential. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent crown rot. Mulch helps retain moisture.
white Delphinium
- Prairie Larkspur (Delphinium virescens):
- Also known as white larkspur, this sub-species is native from Texas to Canada.
- A heat-tolerant plant that blooms from spring into summer on long stalks of exquisite white flowers spaced widely apart.
- Delphinium elatum ‘Guardian White’:
- A mid-sized herbaceous perennial with sturdy flower spikes.
- Densely packed with double, glistening white flowers.
- Blooms for weeks from early to mid-summer.
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Prized as a cut flower.
- Delphinium elatum ‘Aurora White’ (from the Aurora™ series):
- Developed by Takii Seed of Kyoto, Japan, and Salinas, California.
- Uniform, sturdy stems with small leaves, ideal for cut flowers.
- Grows from basal clumps with deeply lobed, dark green foliage
