Larkspurs

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Larkspur is the common name of delphinium, more than 300 species of plants in the family Ranunculaceae, including some species of the genus Consolida. These highly toxic plants are related to ranunculus, clematis, monkshood, aconite, and meadow-rue. Depending on the exact plant, larkspur can be annual, biennial, or perennial, and may grow from 12-84 inches in height.

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These flowers are native to the northern hemisphere and different varieties are found in Europe, North America, Central America, Asia, and the high tropical mountains of Africa. Larkspur can be found in meadows, prairies, and forests where conditions are right for these blooms to flourish. While a typical larkspur plant may only live 2-3 years, they do readily reseed and will continue to grow in the same area as new plants bloom.

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The common name larkspur was given to these flowers as the distinct flower structure resembles the claws of the widespread meadowlark, and in fact, alternative names are “bird’s claw” “lark’s heel” and “lark’s claw.” “Knight’s spur” is another, less widely used name for these flowers. The name delphinium came from the ancient Greek word delphinion or “dolphin” in reference to the shape of the flowers that can resemble a jumping dolphin or the head of a dolphin with its unique snout, most noticeable with closed flower buds.

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Larkspur has upright growth with each stem supporting a profusion of palmate blooms for a striking show of color and texture. Butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds love this nectar-rich flower, and in autumn, the brown or copper-colored seeds add even more interest to the landscape.

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Find more info at https://www.farmersalmanac.com/july-flower-lore

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