Delphinium x belladonna 'Bellamosum' - Larkspur hybrid

Sizes available: #1 (Trade gallon)

Basics: zones 3-7, 36-48" x 18", full sun, a rich blue flowers in long racemes in early to mid summer, prefers a nutritious, moisture-retentive soil

Common names: Larkspur, Delphinium

Family: Ranunculaceae

Origin/Distribution: The Belladonna group of delphiniums are probably crosses of garden delphiniums with D. grandiflorum, which is native to Siberia and northern China. They feature a looser look and are purported to be longer-lived than other perennial larkspurs. 

Habitat: D. grandiflorum is found in grassland and open woods

More: Although the blooming stem can reach four feet, this delphinium does not usually require staking. The flowers are held more loosely and in an open way on their stems, which means an airier feel and a lighter weight. Beautiful in the vase and stands out well intermingled with grasses for a meadow-y feel or massed in a more formal border. May get a second bloom if cut back hard after first flowering period and fed with fish emulsion. Crowns are prone to rotting out, so plant slightly proud of the soil line and mulch up to, but not over, the crown. All delphiniums contain chemical compounds toxic to humans and livestock. 

Nursery: Van Berkum

Image credits: Van Berkum Nursery