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Carolina larkspur

Scientific Name: Delphinium carolinianum

Family: Ranunculaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: FL (Carolina larkspur), KY (Carolina larkspur)

       

Carolina Larkspur (Delphinium carolinianum)

The Carolina Larkspur, also known as Blue Larkspur, Prairie Larkspur, or Espuela del caballero, is a captivating flowering plant found in various habitats across the United States.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions the flower's spur, and sharp petals, which might present a potential hazard if ingested.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions the flower's spur, and sharp petals, which might present a potential hazard if ingested.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Delphinium carolinianum Walter
  • Common Names: Carolina Larkspur, Blue Larkspur, Prairie Larkspur, Plains Larkspur, Espuela del caballero, White Larkspur, Penard's Larkspur.
  • Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
  • Genus: Delphinium (From Greek 'delphinion', derived from the Greek for 'dolphin' because of the shape of some flowers)
  • Subspecies:
    • Delphinium carolinianum ssp. calciphilum M.J. Warnock
    • Delphinium carolinianum subsp. carolinianum
    • Delphinium carolinianum ssp. virescens
    • Delphinium carolinianum ssp. vimineum
  • Synonym: Delphinium azureum, Michx.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the United States.
  • Grows in prairies and grasslands.
  • Uncommon in the mountains, rare in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain.
  • One reference mentions its presence in Colorado, United States (geocache location).
  • Specific state mention: Florida (state-listed endangered species), Arkansas.
  • The Dwarf Larkspur (Delphinium tricorne) is the only other larkspur native to Illinois.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Grows up to 4 feet tall.
  • Flowers bloom from May to July.
  • Flowers are shaped like cornucopias with a spur at the back.
  • Individual flowers are about 1 inch.
  • Flower color can be deep blue, reddish-blue, or white.
  • Flowers are arranged in loose to dense spike-like clusters.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

  • Prefers part shade.
  • Requires medium to moderately dry moisture levels.
  • Adapts to a variety of soils, including clay.

Quirky Facts

  • The genus name, Delphinium, comes from the Greek word for "dolphin" because the flower shape resembles a dolphin.

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Plant Delights Nursery, Inc.
  • Discover Life