PerennialsDelphinium elatum
Larkspur
Larkspur is an imposing border plant whose tall spikes of blue to purple flowers become the focal point of any garden. It blooms in June and July and can reach up to 180 cm. The plant is toxic if ingested, but indispensable for those seeking dramatic vertical accents.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 100–180 cm
- Spread
- 40–60 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–7
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- blue, purple
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in moist, alkaline soil. Stake the tall stems with canes or plant supports once they reach 40 cm. Water regularly and fertilise in spring with compost. Protect against slugs, especially in spring.
Pruning tips
Cut flower spikes back to the first leaf immediately after flowering to encourage a second, shorter bloom in September. Remove all foliage just above ground level after the first frost.
Good companions
ShrubsRosa gallica
Gallica Rose
The Gallica Rose is one of the oldest cultivated rose species, grown since the Middle Ages. Its semi-double, vivid red-pink flowers appear in June and July and carry an intense fragrance. Decorative rose hips develop after flowering.
PerennialsPhlox paniculata
Garden Phlox
Garden Phlox is a stately border plant with large, dome-shaped flower clusters in pink, purple, or white. The blooms release a sweet fragrance and appear from July to September. Phlox is indispensable in the classic cottage garden.
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.