Delphinium nuttallii

Common Names

Nuttall's Larkspur, Upland Larkspur

Summary

Nuttall's larkspur is a perennial in the Ranunculaceae native to Oregon and Washington, with an erect habit and stems bearing fine upward-curved hairs. Leaves are 2–3 in. long and divided to the center into 3 lobes. An inflorescence raceme carries 3–20 flowers that range blue to bluish purple, with long slender spurs 10–13 mm long; lower petals are bifid. Plants reach about 20–60 cm tall and bloom in spring to early summer, producing blue flower spikes on ascending stalks in rocky habitats such as rock outcrops and rocky meadows at elevations of 20–300 m.

Culture treats it as a tuberous perennial best grown in sunny rock crevices, with protection from winter wet and tolerance for poorly drained soil. Propagation occurs by seed sown in winter, barely covered, with germination 1–3 months at 10–13°C, and by division of resting tubers. Hardiness corresponds to USDA zones 4a–9b, and in landscapes it suits naturalized areas and formal beds, tolerating a little neglect.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

0.5-2.5 feet

Spread

8-12 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 4a-9b

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun, tolerates partial shade.

Soil Type

Gravelly outwash soil, well-drained.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Bloom Color

Blue to blue-purple (bluish purple), with yellowish forms in some populations and variations to purple, deep violet, or gentian blue.

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees