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Tall Larkspur

Delphinium exaltatum

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Category
Forb / Wildflower
Sun
Full
Soil moisture
Medium to Medium-Dry
Bloom time
Jul–Aug
Bloom color
Purple
Notes
Rhizomatous

About Tall Larkspur

Tall Larkspur is a majestic woodland-edge perennial that provides a dramatic vertical element with its towering flower spikes. Reaching heights of 4 to 6 feet, this species is much taller than its prairie cousins and features lush, deeply lobed green leaves. In late summer, when many other spring-blooming larkspurs have faded, it produces dense racemes of rich lavender to deep purple flowers. Native to the Appalachian region and parts of the Midwest, it typically inhabits rich, moist woodland borders and limestone bluffs. Its late bloom time makes it an invaluable resource for migrating hummingbirds and late-season pollinators like bumblebees. In the garden, it excels in the back of a border or in a semi-shaded woodland garden. It prefers fertile, medium-moisture soil with good drainage and appreciates protection from strong winds. This native species is remarkably sturdy and disease-resistant, offering reliable architectural beauty year after year. Please note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.

Native range

Native to 11 states:

AlabamaKentuckyMarylandMaineMissouriNorth CarolinaOhioPennsylvaniaTennesseeVirginiaWest Virginia

County range map

BONAP county-level native range map for Delphinium exaltatum

Range map courtesy of BONAP (Biota of North America Program).

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