Delphinium Plant Care
Delphinium elatum L.
Delphinium elatum is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, known by the common names alpine delphinium, bee larkspur, or candle larkspur. It is native to temperate Asia and Europe, it is an erect herbaceous perennial growing to 1.8 m (5.9 ft), with deeply divided leaves.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–75°F
40–60%
What Is the Delphinium?
Delphinium (Delphinium elatum) belongs to the Ranunculaceae family within the Delphinium genus. Delphinium is native to temperate Asia and Europe. Delphinium is also known as Candle Larkspur, Bee Larkspur, Tall Larkspur.
Delphinium displays a tall spikes, clumping perennial growth habit, reaching up to 5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Delphinium produces colorful, showy spikes of blue, purple, pink, or white flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Delphinium?
Delphinium elatum requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Delphinium Need?
Delphinium thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Delphinium in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Delphinium Prefer?
Delphinium elatum grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Delphinium prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
50–75°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Delphinium?
Rich, well-draining soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Delphinium to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Delphinium?
Divide and replant every 3-4 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Delphinium?
Delphinium can be propagated through seeds, division of clumps.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Delphinium Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic if ingested, may cause skin irritation
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Delphinium?
Delphinium is susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Delphinium Need?
Delphinium grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to temperate Asia and Europe, Delphinium is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Delphinium as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Delphinium is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Delphinium genus — compare its care with other Delphinium species on PlantoScan.
Delphinium tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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