Dwarf larkspur
delphinium tricorne
Also known as: ["Spring larkspur","Low larkspur"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America, known for its spurred blue or purple flowers arranged in an open raceme.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Delphinium |
| Botanical Name: | Delphinium tricorne |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade, especially in hotter climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay or constantly waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light shaping can be done in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; primarily deadheading flowers and removing weak or damaged stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light preferred); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun; protect from harsh afternoon rays in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; use shade cloth if needed; avoid hot afternoon sun exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage, ensure soil is moist but not waterlogged, and reduce watering in winter.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions but sensitive to extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer only when actively growing; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring, just as new growth begins, or late summer for root division.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment in new pot or garden may take an additional 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers by cutting back to a leaf node; trim weak or overcrowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Focus on removing spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and maintaining plant vigor; light pruning to shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; cut back to a healthy leaf node; sanitize tools between cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead or crowded roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist, ensuring excess drains away to prevent root rot. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter dormancy. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; slow growth or root rot in cold, waterlogged soil.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage in freezing temperatures, and increases susceptibility to fungal diseases in damp, cold conditions.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold weather; move potted plants to a sheltered location if possible.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; increased water demand can lead to stress if not met.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicDelphinium tricorne is toxic to cats due to its diterpene alkaloid content, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe diterpene alkaloids in Delphinium tricorne are toxic to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicDelphinium tricorne contains diterpene alkaloids, which are toxic to humans. Ingestion can lead to significant physiological effects, including neuromuscular and cardiovascular disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Delphinium tricorne toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Delphinium tricorne attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with Delphinium tricorne?
A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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