Overview of Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan, also known as Geyser delphinium or Lassen Peak larkspur, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae or buttercup family. The species name "burkei" honors John M. Burke, who collected plants in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The subspecies name "distichiflorum" refers to the arrangement of the flowers, which are borne almost exclusively on one side of the stems.
Origin and Distribution
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum is native to the western parts of North America, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. The plant prefers to grow in open forests, meadows, and rocky slopes, often at high elevations above 4,500 feet. It is known to occur in the Lassen Volcanic National Park, the Geyser Basin, and other areas with geothermal activity.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Geyser delphinium or Lassen Peak larkspur, referring to its occurrence near hot springs and volcanic areas. The name "larkspur" comes from the resemblance of the flower spike to the claw of a lark's foot. The plant is also called "candle larkspur" because of the long and slender flower spikes that resemble candles.
Appearance
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum is a perennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall and has a compact, clumping habit. The leaves are palmately lobed and divided into 5-7 segments that are deeply incised and irregularly toothed. The plant produces long and slender flower spikes that bear numerous blue-purple flowers with white centers. The flowers are irregular and have a spurred upper petal, two lateral petals, and two fused petals forming a lower lip. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small, black seeds.
Uses and Conservation
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum is not commonly used in traditional medicine or cuisine, although some Native American tribes have used other delphinium species for medicinal purposes. The plant is more valued for its ornamental and ecological values. The showy flowers of the plant attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the foliage provides cover and shelter for small animals. The plant is also a useful indicator of geothermal activity and volcanic soils.
Despite its ecological and cultural significance, Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum is considered a rare and endangered plant in many parts of its range. The main threats to the plant include habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation due to human activities such as mining, logging, grazing, and recreation. Efforts are underway to conserve and restore the plant's habitat and populations, including the designation of critical habitat and the implementation of management plans.
Growth Conditions of Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan, commonly known as the blue larkspur, is a charming perennial plant that belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). This plant is native to the western region of North America, stretching from California to British Columbia.
Temperature
The blue larkspur grows well in areas with mild temperatures with an average annual temperature ranging between 10 to 19°C (50 to 66°F). In its native habitat, the plant tends to grow at elevations ranging from 500 to 2500 meters above sea level. Therefore, it is well adapted to cooler growing conditions that are not too cold.
Light
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan prefers to grow in full to partial sunlight. Therefore, it is crucial to plant them in areas that receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Excessive shade can lead to spindly growth since the plants might stretch to reach sunlight.
Soil Requirements
This plant does well in well-draining soil with a pH of 6 to 8. The blue larkspur thrives in loamy soils, but it can tolerate other types of soil. However, it does not do well in heavy clay soils that retain moisture as it may cause rotting of the roots. Therefore, it is best to amend heavy soils with organic matter to improve aeration, drainage, and fertility.
In conclusion, understanding the growth conditions of Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan is essential in ensuring the plant thrives in your garden. With proper care, including attention to temperature, light, and soil requirements, you can enjoy the colorful blooms of blue larkspur year after year.
Cultivation
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan, commonly known as mountain larkspur, thrives in moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It is native to the western United States and can grow up to 3 feet tall.
The best time to plant mountain larkspur is in the fall, although you can plant it in the spring as well. Sow the seeds about 1/8 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. Since the seeds need light to germinate, do not cover them entirely with soil.
Watering Needs
Mountain larkspur prefers moderate to high moisture levels, so make sure the soil stays consistently moist. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, more often during dry spells or high temperatures. However, be careful not to overwater, as the plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Fertilization
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum does not require much fertilization. A couple of applications of a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season will suffice. However, avoid applying too much nitrogen, as it can cause the plant to develop weak stems and foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the mountain larkspur healthy and promote new growth. Deadhead the faded flowers regularly to prevent seed formation and encourage the plant to bloom continuously. Cut the flower stalks at the base once they are spent, and remove any yellow or damaged leaves as needed.
Propagation of Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan, commonly known as Tuolumne larkspur, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, USA. Propagation of this plant can be done through four different methods – seed propagation, stem cuttings, division, and root cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Delphinium burkei from seed is relatively easy and cost-effective. Sow the seeds in fall in a well-drained soil mix, at a depth of no more than 1 cm. The seed germination takes around 14 to 21 days. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature range between 21°C to 24°C. The new seedlings should be transplanted in a well-drained sandy loam soil with regular watering and partial shade.
Stem Cuttings
The stem cutting is another propagation method that can be used to reproduce Delphinium burkei. Take a 5-7 cm stem cutting with at least one pair of leaves and dip it in a rooting hormone. Then, plant the cutting in a moist rooting mix and maintain a temperature range of 21°C to 24°C with regular misting. The cutting will root in 3-4 weeks. Once roots have fully formed, the new plant can be transplanted to a well-draining soil mix in a pot or the ground.
Division
Dividing mature Delphinium burkei plants is another way to propagate this striking flower. Carefully dig up the plant and separate its root ball into clumps, each with some shoots. Transplant the clumps in a well-draining soil mix and ensure thorough watering. Dividing the plant is best done in the fall or winter when the plant is not flowering.
Root Cuttings
Root cuttings can be another method used to propagate the plant. In the winter or early spring, dig up a mature Delphinium burkei plant and cut root sections of about 5 to 7 cm in length. Pot the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, keeping them moist and with a temperature range of 21°C to 24°C. The roots will start to grow in 3-4 weeks, and the new plants are transplanted once they have developed into larger plants.
Propagation of Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan should occur in well-drained soil mixes with regular watering and partial sun exposure. With the proper care and attention, these methods of propagation will help you quickly and easily propagate this beautiful plant!
Disease Management
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan, commonly known as the desert larkspur, is susceptible to various diseases. The most common diseases affecting this plant include:
- Pythium Root Rot: This disease is caused by the Pythium fungus and leads to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this disease, avoid over-watering the plant and ensuring proper drainage.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease leads to wilting and stunted growth of the plant. To manage Verticillium wilt, grow the plant in well-draining soil, and avoid continuous cropping of delphiniums in the same soil.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew and downy mildew are common fungal diseases that affect Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan. These diseases lead to the development of a white or gray powdery coating or yellow spots on the leaves. To manage mildew, ensure proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and practice good sanitation through removal of infected plant parts.
Pest Management
Delphinium burkei Greene ssp. distichiflorum (Hook.) Ewan is also susceptible to pests. Some of the common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water, apply insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators such as ladybirds and lacewings.
- Thrips: These tiny insects suck plant sap and cause yellowing or silvering of leaves. They can also transmit viruses. To manage thrips, apply insecticidal soap and practice good sanitation through removal and destruction of infested plant parts.
- Leaf Miners: These pests cause meandering tunnels on the plant leaves, leading to deformation and wilting. To manage leaf miners, remove and destroy infested leaves, and introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps.
