Sierra Larkspur

(Delphinium glaucum)

Sierra Larkspur (Delphinium glaucum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Delphinium glaucum, commonly known as Sierra Larkspur, is a deciduous perennial herb that thrives in moist meadows, streambanks, and open woodlands of the Western USA, Western Canada, and Yukon. This species is one of the tallest larkspurs, with stout, pale green erect stems that can reach up to 3 meters (9.8 ft) in height. The lobed leaves are primarily basal, while the upper stem culminates in a large inflorescence over 1 meter (3.3 ft) long, bearing over fifty widely spaced flowers. Each flower, held on a pedicel a few centimeters long, showcases flat sepals that extend to the sides or point forward. The sepals and petals are typically dark blue to deep purple, with the top two petals occasionally lighter or nearly white, and may have a wrinkled appearance. Flowering occurs in mid to late summer, and the blooms are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Sierra Larkspur is valued for its striking vertical presence and vibrant blue to purple flowers, which add a dramatic touch to garden borders and wildflower meadows. It is also used for cut flowers due to its long inflorescences. In cultivation, it requires full sun to light shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soils. While adaptable to various drainage conditions, it prefers rich, loamy soils. It is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and care should be taken to plant it away from areas accessed by children and pets. Additionally, Delphinium species can be susceptible to fungal diseases, particularly in humid conditions, and may require staking due to their height.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 0.3-0.6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist meadows, streambanks, and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Brown’s Larkspur, Dunce-Cap Larkspur, Tall Larkspur, Mountain Larkspur, Glaucous Larkspur, Giant Larkspur, Western Larkspur, Hooker’s Larkspur, Duncecap Larkspur, Pale-Flowered Brown’s Larkspur

Scientific Names: , Delphinium glaucum, Delphinium brownii, Delphinium elongatum, Delphinium splendens, Delphinium scopulorum var. glaucum, Delphinium ramosum f. sidalceoides, Delphinastrum glaucum, Delphinium brownii f. pallidiflorum, Delphinium canmorcnse

GBIF Accepted Name: Delphinium glaucum S.Watson