Zalil
Delphinium semibarbatum

Family: Ranunculaceae

What it is like

Delphinium semibarbatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from July 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): 0.5

Where it is found

Not known

W. Asia - Afghanistan and Iran.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

The plant is considered to be anodyne, detergent and diuretic. It is used in the treatment of jaundice, dropsy and troubles of the spleen. It is used externally as a poultice for swellings.

Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.

Detergent: A cleansing agent, used on wounds etc. It removes dead and diseased matter.

Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.

Poultice: A moist, usually warm or hot, mass of plant material applied to the skin in the treatment of burns etc.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Prefers a rich well-drained soil that stays moist in the summer. Dislikes water-logged soils, it is liable to die out in heavy soils over winter. Requires an open sunny position. This species is not reliably hardy in cool temperate zones. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes.

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: 5-9

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.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

D. zalil. Aitch.&Hemsl.