Delphinium Growth and Care Guide

Delphinium, commonly known as Larkspur, is a classic cottage-garden perennial celebrated for its tall flower spikes and striking shades of blue, purple, white, and pink. These elegant blooms bring strong vertical interest to borders and mixed perennial beds, often flowering in late Spring to early Summer. This Plant Guide breaks down everything you need to successfully grow delphiniums, from planting and soil preparation to watering, feeding, and staking. We will also cover the best varieties, and how to incorporate it in the garden.

Shop Delphinium Online! We Ship Premium Varieties to your Door.

By: Reggie Meehan (2/3/2026)

Introduction to Delphinium (Larkspur)

Delphinium, often called Larkspur, is one of those plants that instantly changes the feel of a garden. With its tall, elegant flower spikes and rich colors—especially those unmistakable blues—it brings height and drama that few other perennials can match. There are hundreds of species within the Delphinium family, including long-lived perennials like Delphinium elatum and easy, fast-growing annual types such as Rocket Larkspur (Delphinium consolida). Whether you’re drawn to the staying power of perennial delphiniums or the flexibility of annual larkspur, these plants add a level of beauty that feels both classic and special.

Delphiniums perform best in cooler climates and have long been favorites in cottage gardens, cutting gardens, and mixed borders where vertical interest really matters. The blooms are magnets for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which is something I always consider when choosing plants for a space. They’re also traditionally associated with July as a birth flower, symbolizing positivity and grace—a fitting description for a plant that stands so proudly in the garden. Whether used as a border focal point or cut for arrangements, Delphinium has a way of feeling timeless without ever feeling old-fashioned.

I still remember the first time I planted Delphiniums in a sunny border and watched those tall blue spires open up. They stopped me in my tracks—there’s no other way to describe it. The color was so intense it almost glowed, and the pollinators noticed right away. From that point on, delphiniums earned a permanent place in my garden whenever I wanted height, elegance, and something truly memorable.

Characteristics of Delphinium (Larkspur)

Delphinium is known for its tall, commanding flower spikes and rich, saturated colors that naturally draw your eye upward. It’s not a plant I’d call carefree, but the payoff is absolutely worth it if you give it what it needs. When delphiniums are happy, they bring a sense of elegance and presence that few other plants can match. Between the blooms and the pollinators they attract, they always feel like a highlight rather than just another plant in the bed.

Size and Growth Habit

Delphiniums can vary quite a bit in size, depending on the type you’re growing. Most traditional varieties reach anywhere from 3 to 8 feet tall, with an upright, vertical habit that makes them perfect for the back of borders. They typically spread about 1 to 3 feet wide, giving them enough substance to stand on their own without crowding nearby plants. I always make sure they have good airflow and plenty of sun, which helps keep stems strong and reduces disease pressure. Taller varieties often need staking, especially in windy areas or after heavy rain, while more compact types—like belladonna-style delphiniums or Magic Fountains—are much easier to manage in smaller spaces.

Leaves and Flowers

The foliage on delphiniums forms a dense, leafy base of deeply lobed, bright green leaves that stays attractive even when the plant isn’t in bloom. I like that it gives the plant substance from the ground up, rather than looking bare at the base. 

The real stars, of course, are the flower spikes—tall columns packed with blooms in shades of blue, purple, pink, white, and occasionally softer pastels. Many of the flowers have that classic little spur at the back, which is where the name “Larkspur” comes from. Bloom time usually hits in late spring to early summer, and with prompt deadheading, many perennials will reward you with a second, lighter flush later on.

Is Delphinium Annual or Perennial?

Delphinium includes both perennial and annual types, which gives gardeners a lot of flexibility. Perennial delphiniums, especially Delphinium elatum, are hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 3–7 and can return year after year when planted in the right conditions. These are the ones I rely on for structure and repeat performance in perennial borders. 

Annual larkspur, like Delphinium consolida, grows quickly and blooms heavily in its first season, making it a great option for cutting gardens or quick color. In tougher climates or for gardeners who don’t want to overwinter plants, annual delphiniums are an easy way to enjoy the look without the long-term commitment. Both have their place, and I’ve made room for each depending on the garden and the goal.

Best Varieties of Delphinium

Over the years, many Delphinium varieties have been introduced, but not all of them perform well in real home gardens. Taller series can be stunning, but they often require heavy staking, constant attention, and ideal conditions to look their best. For that reason, we focus exclusively on the Magic Fountains Series, which delivers the classic Delphinium look in a more reliable, garden-friendly form.

These plants reach a manageable 2–3 feet tall, offering the same elegant flower spikes Delphiniums are known for without the excessive height that leads to flopping and breakage. The stems are naturally sturdier, making them far better suited for smaller gardens, exposed or windy locations, and mixed borders where staking isn’t practical. Beyond their size, Magic Fountains Delphiniums bloom reliably, re-bloom more readily when deadheaded, and are easier to maintain season after season. That combination of beauty, balance, and performance is why this is the only Delphinium series we choose to carry.

Honorable Mentions

The Pacific Giant Series deserves a nod, especially the classic ‘King Arthur’, which is known for its deep royal blue flowers and dramatic height. When conditions are just right, it can be absolutely stunning and makes a bold statement at the back of large borders. That said, Pacific Giants tend to grow much taller—often 5 to 6 feet—and usually require staking, protection from wind, and more attentive care to keep them standing upright. For gardeners willing to put in that extra effort and who have the space, ‘King Arthur’ can be rewarding, but it’s not as forgiving or versatile as Magic Fountains. That’s why we admire it, but ultimately choose to focus on varieties that perform more reliably in everyday gardens.

How to Grow and Care for Delphinium

Delphiniums are not a “set it and forget it” plant, but if you’re willing to meet their needs, they’ll reward you in a big way. Those tall spires of color bring a level of drama and elegance that few other perennials can match. I’ve learned over the years that success with Delphinium comes down to good placement, consistent care, and not cutting corners on soil and drainage. When those basics are right, they can be absolutely spectacular year after year.

Planting Delphinium

I prefer planting Delphinium in spring after the danger of hard frost has passed, though early fall planting also works well in milder climates. Choose a location with plenty of sun and soil that drains well but still holds moisture. I always amend the planting area with compost or well-rotted organic matter to give roots a strong start. Space plants about 1–2 feet apart so air can move freely around them, which helps prevent disease later on. For taller varieties, I like to set stakes at planting time—it’s much easier than trying to add support once the plants are already tall and heavy with blooms.

Sunlight Requirements

Delphiniums do best with full sun, ideally 6–8 hours a day. In cooler climates, full sun is perfect, but in hotter regions, they appreciate a bit of afternoon shade to take the edge off the heat. Too much shade leads to weak stems and fewer flowers, while too much heat can shorten bloom time. Finding that balance makes a noticeable difference in how long they stay attractive. When the light is right, the flower spikes are stronger and the color is richer.

Soil Requirements

Healthy Delphiniums start with good soil. They need rich, well-drained soil that doesn’t stay soggy, especially through winter. I always work in compost before planting and avoid low spots where water tends to collect. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is ideal, but drainage matters far more than hitting an exact number. Heavy clay soil is where I see the most problems, particularly crown rot. If drainage is questionable, raising the planting area even slightly can save you a lot of frustration.

Watering Needs

Delphiniums like consistent moisture, especially during active growth and bloom, but they never want to sit in wet soil. I water deeply at the base of the plant and let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Mulching helps keep roots cool and soil moisture more even, which Delphiniums appreciate. I avoid overhead watering whenever possible, since wet foliage invites fungal issues. Steady, thoughtful watering keeps plants strong without stressing them.

Fertilizer Needs

These plants are fairly heavy feeders, especially compared to many other perennials. I apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth starts, then feed again during the growing season to support flowering. Organic options like compost, bone meal, or compost tea work very well and release nutrients more steadily. Too much fertilizer, especially nitrogen-heavy products, can cause tall but weak stems that flop easily. Feeding just enough keeps blooms coming without sacrificing structure.

Pruning & Maintenance

Staking is often necessary for taller Delphiniums, especially in windy areas or after heavy rain. I deadhead spent flower spikes promptly, which not only keeps the plant tidy but often encourages a second flush of blooms later in the season. Once flowering is finished and the plant starts to decline, I cut it back to the ground. Keeping plants clean and maintained goes a long way toward preventing disease and extending bloom time.

Overwintering

Delphiniums are hardy perennials in USDA Zones 3–7, but winter success depends largely on drainage. Cold doesn’t usually kill them—wet soil does. I apply a light mulch in late fall to protect the crown from freeze-thaw cycles, especially in colder regions. In early spring, I pull mulch back to allow new growth to emerge cleanly. With good drainage, most Delphiniums come back strong year after year.

Common Pests

Delphiniums can attract a few common garden pests, including aphids, slugs, snails, and spider mites. Aphids usually show up on tender new growth and are easy to control with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap. Slugs and snails can be a bigger issue, especially in damp conditions, and may require traps or barriers. Spider mites tend to appear in hot, dry weather and respond well to increased humidity or neem oil. Regular checks make it easier to deal with problems early.

Common Diseases

Powdery mildew is the most common disease I see on Delphiniums, especially in humid conditions or crowded plantings. Good spacing, airflow, and watering at the base of the plant help prevent it. Leaf spot can also occur, but proper sanitation and spacing usually keep it in check. Crown rot is the most serious issue and is almost always tied to poor drainage. Healthy soil and good site selection prevent most disease problems before they start.

Common Mistakes

The biggest mistake gardeners make is planting Delphiniums in soil that doesn’t drain well. Skipping staking on tall varieties is another common issue that leads to broken stems. Overwatering, especially late in the season, can also cause problems. Delphiniums aren’t difficult, but they do need thoughtful care. When those basics are ignored, they tend to struggle.

Common Misconceptions

One common misconception is that Delphiniums only bloom once. With proper deadheading, many varieties will rebloom later in the season. Another is that Larkspur and Delphinium are completely different plants—Larkspur often refers to the annual forms, but they’re closely related. Some gardeners also assume Delphiniums are too finicky to bother with, but when planted correctly, they’re incredibly rewarding and dependable.

Using Delphinium in the Garden

Delphiniums bring structure and drama, but when they’re used thoughtfully, they don’t feel stiff or out of place. I’ve come to think of Delphinium as a design tool as much as a flowering plant, especially when you choose the right variety for the right setting. Whether I’m building out a cottage garden, anchoring a mixed border, or cutting flowers for the house, Delphiniums always seem to earn their space.

Cottage Gardens

Delphiniums feel right at home in cottage gardens, where everything is meant to feel abundant, layered, and a little romantic. One of my favorite varieties for this setting has been Magic Fountains ‘Lavender White Bee’. I planted it years ago alongside old garden roses and foxgloves, and the soft lavender blooms with their crisp white centers blended beautifully without overpowering anything nearby. The height gave the planting structure, but the color stayed gentle and inviting, which is exactly what you want in a cottage-style space.

I like planting Delphiniums in loose clusters rather than single specimens, letting them rise through lower plants like peonies and catmint. The pollinators always find them quickly—bees especially seem to love the open flowers—and that movement adds life to the garden. When everything is in bloom at once, Delphiniums act like vertical punctuation marks, pulling your eye upward and giving the whole planting a sense of balance.

Mixed Borders

In mixed borders, Delphiniums are all about structure and contrast. This is where I often use Magic Fountains ‘Blue Sky White Bee’, because that clean blue tone works with almost everything. I planted it toward the back of a long border once, behind coneflowers and lavender, and it created a beautiful transition from mid-height plants to the taller backdrop without feeling abrupt. The white “bee” in the center of each flower added just enough detail to keep the color from feeling flat.

What I appreciate most in borders is how Delphiniums help anchor the planting. When the border starts to feel busy or a little chaotic, those upright flower spikes bring order back into the design. Deadheading after the first bloom often gives a second flush, which keeps the border looking intentional well into the season. They’re especially effective when you need height but don’t want shrubs or grasses taking over the space.

Cut Flowers

Delphiniums are also some of the best cut flowers you can grow, and for this, I always reach for Magic Fountains ‘Pure White’. I grow it specifically with cutting in mind because those clean white spikes work with everything—from soft pastels to bold summer colors. I still remember cutting my first big armful and being surprised by how long they lasted in a vase when picked at the right stage.

I cut Delphiniums when several flowers on the spike have opened but before the entire stem is in full bloom. That timing gives you the best vase life and keeps the arrangement from feeling heavy. Whether used alone in a tall vase or mixed with roses and greenery, Delphiniums bring elegance indoors in a way few flowers can. They don’t just fill space—they make a statement.

Delphinium Towers With Color

Looking to grow Delphinium, also known as Larkspur, in your garden? At Garden Delivery, we offer premium Delphinium varieties celebrated for their tall, stately spikes of blue, purple, white, or pink blooms that add breathtaking vertical interest to cottage gardens, borders, and cutting gardens. These elegant perennials prefer cool summers, rich soil, and full sun with a bit of afternoon shade in hotter climates. Delphiniums attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while providing bold structure and old-fashioned charm. Though they may need staking in windy areas, their stunning blooms are well worth the care. Add Delphinium to your garden today for graceful height, pollinator appeal, and unforgettable color.