Delphinium patens

Common Names

Spreading Larkspur, Zigzag Larkspur

Summary

Native to California, this perennial herb grows in grassy and woodland habitats on dry slopes in sun or shade and typically reaches about 2 ft tall. It bears blue to purple flowers with upward-pointing spurs, commonly called Spreading Larkspur or Zigzag Larkspur, and attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.

Prefers bright direct sunlight with moderate temperatures and humidity; water only as soil partly dries to avoid waterlogging; requires well-draining loamy soil with pH slightly acidic to neutral and a compost mix; fertilize with a balanced 10-10-10 during spring and summer; repot every 2–3 years in early spring; propagate by seeds (late winter/early spring) or division (early spring or fall); after flowering, remove spent flowers and cut back stems to base; all parts contain alkaloids and are toxic if ingested; do not eat and handle with care.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

8-20 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 6

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun or partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-draining loamy soil, pH around 6.5.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained loamy soil

Soil pH

6.0-7.0, Slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Blue to purple

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Reddish

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Division

Attracts Wildlife

Bees and hummingbirds attracted; butterflies and other pollinators (moths) likely attracted