Origin
Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum, commonly known as variegated larkspur, is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
Common names
The plant is commonly referred to as variegated larkspur due to its variegated foliage. Other common names include striped larkspur, rainbow larkspur, and painted larkspur.
Uses
The variegated larkspur has limited medicinal uses, although it was used traditionally by Native Americans to treat various ailments such as snake bites, scorpion stings, and fever. The plant's primary value is ornamental due to its striking, variegated leaves and tall, colorful blooms. The variegated larkspur is often used in cut flower arrangements and is a favorite among gardeners for its vibrant display.
General appearance
The variegated larkspur is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to four feet tall. It has a single, unbranched stalk with numerous lobed leaves that are variegated with green and white markings. The plant produces a tall spike of showy, spurred, and irregularly shaped blooms in shades of blue, purple, and pink. The fruit is a capsule containing many small, shiny black seeds. The variegated larkspur blooms in late spring to early summer and is often found in mountain meadows, open woodlands, and rocky slopes.
Light Requirements
Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum prefers to grow in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In low light conditions, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Temperatures above 80°F (27°C) can cause the plant to wilt and become stressed. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but may not grow as vigorously.
Soil Requirements
Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Soil that is too acidic or too alkaline can stunt the plant's growth. The plant does best in moist, fertile soil and benefits from regular fertilization.
Cultivation Methods
Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum can grow up to two feet in height and prefers full sun or partial shade to grow. To cultivate this plant, grow it in well-draining soil, as it doesn't tolerate wet soil well and make sure that the soil pH level is between 6.0 and 7.5. In areas with hot summers, a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day is advised.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during hot weather or drought conditions, but over-watering should be avoided as it can lead to the development of root rot. Watering should be done once in two weeks, ensuring that the soil avoids waterlogged conditions. Always monitor the moisture level in the soil and give water when required.
Fertilization
Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum requires regular feeding of nutrients to maintain healthy growth and beautiful flowers. It is recommended that you feed the plant with an all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season, starting in early spring. Use a half-strength fertilizer solution and drench the soil evenly around the plant. Avoid over-fertilization as it leads to excessive foliage growth and reduced flower production.
Pruning
When it comes to pruning Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum, it is essential to remove the spent flower spikes regularly. Doing this encourages continuous blooming and tidiness to the plant. After the last flowers have bloomed, cut the stems back to the ground level. Late-season trimming of up to six inches after flowering can also encourage re-blooming.
Propagation of Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum
Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum, commonly known as the variegated larkspur, can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Delphinium variegatum can be collected when the seedpods have turned brown and dry. The collected seeds should be stored in airtight containers and kept in a cool, dry place until ready to sow.
The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall, as this will allow the seeds to undergo stratification naturally during winter. If sowing in the spring, stratification can be induced by storing the seeds in the refrigerator for a few weeks before sowing.
Seeds should be sown in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix and lightly covered with soil. Water the soil and place in a location where it receives bright, indirect light. Germination usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Delphinium variegatum can be taken in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut below a leaf node.
Remove the lower leaves to expose the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place the cutting in a location where it receives bright, indirect light.
The cutting should develop roots within 4-6 weeks and can be transplanted to a larger container or into the garden.
Propagation through Division
Delphinium variegatum can also be propagated through division. This method can be done in the fall or early spring when the plant is not actively growing.
Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Each division should have a well-developed root system and several healthy shoots.
Plant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place in a location where it receives bright, indirect light. The divisions should establish and begin to grow within a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum
Delphinium variegatum Torr. & Gray ssp. variegatum is a stunningly beautiful plant that is prone to attacks from pests and diseases. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant, as well as methods for managing them:
Diseases
Crown Rot: Crown rot, also known as southern blight, is a fungal disease that results in the wilting and eventual death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to practice good garden sanitation. Remove and discard infected plant debris, and avoid planting new plants in the same area for several years.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that manifests as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to provide good air circulation by spacing the plants appropriately. It is also important to avoid wetting the leaves when watering the plant.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the stems and leaves of the plant. To manage aphids, it is important to attract natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to the garden. You can also use a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids from the plant.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that suck the sap from the foliage of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and well-mulched. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage the infestation.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on the leaves of the plant. To manage thrips, it is important to prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them. You can also use sticky traps or insecticidal soap to manage the infestation.
