Delphinium exaltatum, Tall Larkspur

 

Pictures to Come!

 

 

Tall Larkspur is not a native plant of Minnesota, however it is a North American, generally Appalachian, native Larkspur of which one can get seeds. In spring, 2023, I started just a few and should these overwinter nicely, I will make them available.

As these are native to Appalachia, I trust North Carolina Extension's experience: It prefers cool summers and doesn't do well in high humidity. Plant in fertile moist well-drained soils in full sun. It locations with hot summers, it appreciates afternoon shade. 

 

I bet it hates hot, dry winds that we can get from time to time in summer. My plants did well enough last summer and fall, and even went to bud in early November, tolerating a few nights of pretty cold temperatures. My take -this is a south to southeast-facing, woodland edge plant that gets afternoon shade and protection from hot, southwest winds. 

 

Please note: this plant is poisonous. If you are worried about children or pets, I do not suggest it. Deer and rabbits will likely leave it be. Hummingbirds and butterflies will sip its nectar.

 

Bloom: blue-purple, July to October

Height: 3-5 feet.

Conditions: sun to pt sun, moist-medium to medium soils