Delphinium elatum ‘Magic Fountains Dark Blue with Black Bee’ [British Grown Herbaceous Perennial]

Description

This flowering plant sends out tall flower spikes covered in dark-blue flowers with black central petals above its mound of vibrant green foliage. Hardy throughout most of the UK down to -15°C.

A relative of the buttercup, the Candle Larkspur grows wild in river valleys, woodland edges and clearings, but have also been cultivated since the 16th Century. This flowering shrub grows a mound of vibrant green foliage which then produces tall spikes (up to 2m tall!) of dark-blue flowers with black central petals. Their height means they’ll still shine at the back of a display, but make sure to keep them sheltered from the wind so they don’t get blown over. Choose this gorgeous flower for the perfect border or centrepiece to your outdoor display.

Scientific Name
Delphinium elatum ‘Magic Fountains Dark Blue with Black Bee’ (tall/proud dolphin-like plant, variety: Magic Fountains Dark Blue with Black Bee)

Common Name
Larkspur, Candele Larkspur, Alpine Delphinium

Origin
Native to areas from Southern and Central Europe to Siberia 

Pruning Tips
Cutting down faded flower spikes will encourage a second blooming in September.

Wildlife Value
Pollinators, especially bees

Positioning
Full sun

Water
Ideally, your larkspur should sit in moist but not soggy soil; make sure they don’t dry out in hot weathe

Soil
Moist but well-draining.

Food
Will benefit from feeding every two weeks; look out for fertilisers suitable for flowering plants (high in potash) and this will encourage bigger and healthier blooms!

Pet-safe?
No, this plant is toxic to dogs, cats and horses, so make sure your furry friends don’t nibble at it!

Sprouts Top Tips
Make sure to protect your plants from slugs and snails, especially when they first start to grow in Spring; keeping the soil moist in dry weather will reduce its risk of developing powdery mildew as well.