Larkspur, Twolobe larkspur
Delphinium nuttallianum
Family: Ranunculaceae
What it is like
Delphinium nuttallianum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Sagebrush desert to (more commonly)mountain valleys and slopes. Most frequent in the ponderosa pine belt and is usually found in well-drained gravelly soils.
Western N. America - British Columbia to California.
Conservation Status: This taxon has not yet been assessed.
Countries/locations it is found in
Western N. America - British Columbia to California.
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Parasiticide: Treats external parasites such as ringworm This should perhaps be joined with Parasiticide in
Other
Rating: 2
A blue dye is obtained from the flowers. An ink can be made from the dye. A parasiticide is obtained from the leaves. It is quite toxic and so is for external use only.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
Ink: Plants that can be used as an ink.
Parasiticide: Kills external body parasites such as hair lice.
How it is grown
Prefers a rich well-drained soil. Dislikes water-logged soils. Requires an open sunny position. A very variable species, there are several sub-species. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes. Slugs and snails are very attracted to this plant.
Propagating it: Seed - sow March/April in a cold frame or May outdoors. Keep moist and in a shady position until germination takes place. The seed has a limited viability so it should be stored in a sealed container at about 3°c. Temperatures above 15°c inhibit germination. The seed usually germinates in 2 - 9 weeks at 15°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out into their permanent positions in the summer. Cuttings of basal shoots in April/May, taken before they become hollow at the base, and planted in a cold frame. Division in spring or early autumn.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
All parts of the plant are toxic. The plant is most toxic when it is young.
This plant can be weedy or invasive. Some evidence in western US.
Its other names
Local names
Twolobe larkspur and Nuttall's larkspur.