Origin
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) is a hybrid plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is a result of the crossbreed between Delphinium menziesii and Delphinium glaucum. The plant is native to the Pacific Northwest region that includes Northern California, Oregon, and Washington in the United States.
Common Names
The Delphinium ×macrophyllum plant is known by several common names which include coastal larkspur, large-leaf larkspur, delphinium, elk larkspur, and California larkspur.
Uses
The Delphinium ×macrophyllum plant has several uses. In traditional medicine, the plant is used as a remedy for skin infections, allergies, and respiratory problems. The plant contains toxic alkaloids that can cause severe poisoning if ingested. Therefore, it should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional.
The Delphinium ×macrophyllum plant is also used in gardening. The plant has beautiful purple-blue flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The plant grows well in moist and well-drained soils and can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
General Appearance
The Delphinium ×macrophyllum plant is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 5 feet tall. The plant has a stout stem that is covered in fine hair-like structures. The leaves of the plant are palmately lobed and can grow up to 8 inches in diameter. The flowers of the plant are arranged in tall spikes that are held above the foliage. The flowers are spurred and have five petals that vary in color from deep blue to purple. The plant blooms from May to July.
Light Requirements
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) requires plenty of sunshine to thrive. It does best in full sunlight, although it can tolerate partial shade. Ideally, the plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to grow in cool climates, and it requires temperatures in the range of 50 to 70°F (10 to 21°C). In extremely hot temperatures, the plant may go dormant, so it is important to plant it in a cool spot. It can tolerate frost, and it is hardy in zones 3-7.
Soil Requirements
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH level in the range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant grows best in loamy soil but can also tolerate sandy soils. It is essential to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) is a perennial plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and requires support such as stakes or trellis to prevent it from falling over. You can propagate delphinium through division or from seeds sown in spring or fall.
Watering needs
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) likes moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. During the growing season, water your plants regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Reduce watering in fall and winter when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) requires regular fertilization to thrive. Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to poor growth and weak stems.
Pruning
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) requires pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent leggy stems. Cut back the spent flower stalks to the base after blooming to promote a second flush of blooms. In fall, cut the plant back to the ground to prevent overwintering diseases and prepare the plant for dormancy.
Propagation of Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot.
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) is a hybrid plant resulting from a cross between Delphinium exaltatum Aiton and Delphinium tricorne Michx. The plant belongs to the family Ranunculaceae and is commonly called largeleaf larkspur. It is a long-lived perennial plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The plant produces lovely blue flowers in early summer.
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. can be propagated by two methods: division and seed propagation.
Propagation by division
The best time to divide Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. is in early spring, just as the plant is emerging from dormancy. Start by digging up the entire root ball and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot and root system. Plant the sections in well-draining soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. Water the sections thoroughly after planting.
Propagation by seed
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. can be propagated from seed, but this method requires patience and attention to detail. Collect the seeds in the fall after the flowers have faded and the seed pods have ripened. Sow the seeds indoors in a well-draining seedling mix in late winter. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water them well. Place the seed tray in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not wet. Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. seeds can take up to four weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, transplant them to larger containers or outdoors in a well-prepared bed.
With proper care and maintenance, Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. can be a beautiful addition to any garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot.
Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. (pro sp.) is prone to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fusarium wilt is a common fungal disease in Delphinium plants, causing wilting, yellowing, and leaf drop. Prevent it by planting disease-free seed, sterilizing gardening tools, and avoiding overhead watering. If you detect the disease, dispose of infected plants and avoid planting delphinium in the same area for three years.
Botrytis blight is another fungal disease that affects the leaves and flowers of Delphinium. It causes brown spots, yellowed leaves, and wilting flowers. You can manage botrytis by removing infected plant tissues and improving air circulation around the plants.
Crown rot damages the crowns and roots of Delphinium, leading to stunted growth and death. Avoid it by planting in well-drained soil, maintaining proper irrigation practices, and removing infected plants.
Pests
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap of Delphinium, causing distorted and stunted growth. You can control them by spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil on the leaves.
Spider mites are another pest that affects Delphinium and causes yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to treat spider mites.
Slugs and snails can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of Delphinium. Use a physical barrier, such as copper tape, to prevent them from reaching your plants. You can also set up beer traps or handpick them.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can grow healthy and vibrant Delphinium ×macrophyllum Woot. plants.
