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upland larkspur

Scientific Name: Delphinium nuttallii ssp. ochroleucum

Family: Ranunculaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Upland Larkspur (Delphinium nuttallianum)

Upland larkspur, scientifically known as Delphinium nuttallianum, is an attractive perennial wildflower that often goes by the common name "Common Larkspur" in the Northwest.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that some Larkspurs are also known as "Poison Larkspur" or "Cow-poison". Although this refers to a different species, caution should always be exercised to prevent consumption of plants that may have toxic properties.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Delphinium nuttallianum Pritz. ex Walp.
  • Common Names: Upland Larkspur, Common Larkspur
  • Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Synonyms/Subspecies:
    • Delphinium nuttallii A. Gray subsp. nuttallii
    • Delphinium nelsonii Greene
    • Delphinium nuttallii A. Gray
    • Delphinium nuttallii ssp. ochroleucum (Pale Larkspur is a white-flowered larkspur of this subspecies)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Upland larkspur is commonly found in much of the western U.S. and Canada.
  • It typically grows in open, dry forests and shrublands.
  • Specific locations mentioned include:
    • Eastern Washington (shrub-steppe habitat)
    • Southern Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
    • Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
    • Ancient Lakes Area
    • Little City of Rocks north of Gooding
    • Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park near Vernon, British Columbia, Canada
    • Columbia River Gorge, Washington USA

Morphological Characteristics

  • It is a thin, sparse perennial plant.
  • Typically has one erect, unbranched stem, though branching can occasionally occur.
  • The stem ranges from 12-40 cm (approximately 4-16 inches) high. Some sources say 18-24 inches tall.
  • The stem is slender, very erect, and breaks easily from the root at ground level.
  • Leaves are mostly basal (at the base of the plant).
  • The flowers are striking blue to violet in color.
  • Flowers have five widespread petals.

Quirky Facts

  • The white-flowered version is classified as Delphinium nuttallii ssp. ochroleucum.
  • It is suitable for the early season rock garden.