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Larkspur and delphinium are two names often used interchangeably, but while they share a close botanical relationship, they are not precisely the same. Delphiniums belong to the Delphinium genus, while larkspur is part of the Consolida genus. Despite their differences, they are often confused because both plants produce tall spikes of vibrant, densely-packed flowers and thrive in similar growing conditions.
Delphiniums are considered perennial plants, meaning they can return year after year with proper care. They are cherished for their bold vertical presence and striking blooms in shades of purple. Their more delicate counterpart, larkspur, tends to be an annual plant, making a dazzling appearance for one season before its life cycle ends. Larkspurs are just as colorful, but their blooms are typically more relaxed, with a softer, meadow-like feel. These distinctions are essential when planning your garden's layout, as they influence how these plants will behave over multiple seasons.
When selecting which to plant, it's crucial to consider your region's climate, the look you want for your garden, and your long-term garden maintenance goals. Both plants offer a unique charm and can complement each other beautifully when planted together. The rigid spikes of delphinium bring structure to a garden bed, while larkspur's airy, whimsical appearance adds a softer touch. Their combined visual appeal ensures an eye-catching display throughout the growing season.
Is there a difference between larkspur and delphinium?
Yes, there are critical differences between larkspur and delphinium, although they are frequently mistaken for one another. Delphinium is a perennial with thicker, more substantial spikes and is commonly planted in cooler climates. These plants can live for many years, returning each season with the proper care and attention. Delphiniums are known for their tall, upright stems adorned with densely packed flower clusters, often attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Larkspur is readily self-seeds, giving the impression that it's a perennial, as new plants may sprout the following season. Its flowers are more delicate than delphinium, with a looser, more casual arrangement along their stems. Larkspurs are prized for their cottage garden appeal, giving any landscape a slightly wilder, more natural appearance.
One notable distinction is that larkspur can be easier for novice gardeners to grow. They tend to tolerate a broader range of soil conditions and don't require as much maintenance as delphiniums. Delphiniums, with their need for specific growing conditions and support to prevent their heavy stems from toppling, are a bit more demanding but offer a more structured and formal aesthetic. Both are beautiful choices depending on the garden style you're aiming to create.
What month should I plant delphiniums?
Delphiniums are best planted in early spring. If you're starting from seeds, sow them indoors about 8 to 10 weeks before the season's last frost to give them a head start. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle and frost has passed, you can transplant them into the garden.
If you're using nursery-grown plants, they can also be planted in the early spring to allow ample time to establish themselves before summer. In cooler climates, delphiniums may also be planted in early fall, giving them enough time to settle in before winter and preparing them for a strong start in the spring.
Regardless of the time of year, location is critical. Delphiniums require a spot with plenty of sunlight-ideally at least six hours per day-and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. They also appreciate shelter from strong winds, as their tall spikes can become damaged if left exposed.
What time of year do you plant larkspur?
Larkspur is typically planted in the fall for spring blooms, although spring planting is also possible in some regions. Because larkspur is an annual, timing its planting correctly is essential to ensure it blooms at the right time. In mild winters, seeds can be sown directly into the garden in the fall, allowing the plants to establish themselves during the cooler months and burst into bloom once spring arrives.
They thrive best in cool weather, so getting them in the ground as early as possible ensures they can enjoy the growing season's more remarkable part before the intense summer heat sets in.
Does Larkspur back every year?
Since larkspur is generally an annual, it does not come back in the traditional sense of perennials. However, larkspur is known for its ability to self-seed prolifically. This means that even though the original plant may not return the following year, new plants can often sprout in its place from the seeds that have fallen to the ground. This makes larkspur seem like it comes back every year, even though technically, each plant only lives for one growing season.
Self-seeding can be a boon for low-maintenance gardeners who want a continual display of flowers without replanting each year. To encourage self-seeding, leave the plants to go to seed after blooming. The seeds will naturally scatter, and many will germinate the following spring.
For those who prefer more control over their garden's appearance, larkspur's tendency to self-seed can also be managed. Deadheading the flowers before they set seed will prevent the plants from spreading, allowing you to replant them in specific areas the following year if desired. Whichever approach you choose, larkspur is a reliable way to enjoy bursts of vibrant color year after year with minimal effort.
Whether you want to create a formal, structured garden with delphiniums or a more relaxed, cottage-style garden with larkspurs, these plants offer stunning displays. Their differences allow for a versatile garden design, appealing to a wide range of gardening styles and levels of expertise.
