Red Larkspur, Larkspur
Delphinium nudicaule
Family: Ranunculaceae
What it is like
Bloom Color: Orange. Main Bloom Time: Early summer, Late summer, Late spring, Mid summer. Form: Irregular or sprawling, Upright or erect.
Delphinium nudicaule is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from June to August. 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
Dry slopes among shrubs and in woods, below 2150 metres. Moist talus and cliff faces from sea level to 2600 metres.
South-western N. America - California, oregon
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The root is considered by some native North American Indians to be highly narcotic.
Narcotic: Relieves pain, induces drowsiness and gives a sense of well-being.
Other
Rating: 3
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.
How it is grown
Landscape Uses:Border, Container, Foundation, Massing, Rock garden, Seashore, Specimen. Prefers a rich well-drained soil. Dislikes water-logged soils. Requires an open sunny position. Plants can flower in their first year from spring-sown seed, they are reliably perennial in their native environment, but often die overwinter in most parts of Britain. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes. Slugs and snails are very attracted to this plant. Special Features: Attracts birds, Attractive foliage, North American native, All or parts of this plant are poisonous, Suitable for cut flowers, Suitable for dried flowers, Extended bloom season in Zones 9A and above.
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: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 3-7
Growth: Medium
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.