What Distinguishes Larkspur From Hydrangeas?

Larkspur, also known as the giant larkspur, is a popular and easy-care perennial plant in the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Eastern North America and prefers shaded or partially shaded sites. The five common types of hydrangea include Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrophynchus macrophylla), Oakleaf (H. quercifolia) and Smooth (H. arborescens). These plants have upright habit, pyramidal-shaped blooms of white flowers that change to pink, broad 3-7 lobed leaves, and are taller.

Larkspur is a classic cottage garden staple with airy stalks of blue, pink, purple, or white blossoms. It is also known as Delphinium and Consolida ajacis. The genus of flowers, which includes larkspur, is characterized by its unforgettable blooms, tall stalks, and delicate, airy petals. The delphinium, also known as larkspur or dolphinelle, is named after the shape of the long spur protecting its flower buds.

Larkspur and hydrangeas are flower cousins, but they have their own unique characteristics. White larkspur symbolizes pure happiness, pink larkspur represents fickleness, and purple larkspur represents purity. Larkspur’s flower spikes are more delicate and daintier than Delphinium, but they offer their own charm. They are members of the Ranunculaceae family of plants, including clematis, clematis, and other hydrangea species.

In order to find the right hydrangea for your home or garden, it is important to know the growing conditions, flower shapes, colors, and other distinguishing factors about these five main types.

How do you identify larkspur?

Nuttall’s larkspur is a perennial plant with flowers that appear in spring and early summer, ranging from light blue to deep purple. The plant has a long “spur” projecting to the rear of the flower, adding visual interest to wildflower enthusiasts. The flowers are widely spaced on the upper end of stems, and the number of flowers varies from a few to about a dozen. The leaves are deeply lobed, and most are located at the base of the plant. The plant is part of a complex of several species, which can form hybrids, making identification difficult and confusing.

All parts of the plant are toxic, with the primary toxic compounds being alkaloids (methyllycaconitine and nudicauline). The concentrations of these alkaloids vary from location to location and with the plant’s age. Young plants are the most poisonous. A parasiticide can be made from the leaves, but only for external use due to its toxicity.

What is larkspur in English?

A larkspur is a cultivated delphinium known for its showy blue, pink, or white flowers. These annuals have the upper two petals of the corolla united and the bottom two missing, and are now often placed in a separate genus (Consolida). Examples of larkspurs on the web range from delicate snow lilies and fairy slipper orchids to dwarf larkspur and Colorado blue columbines. Wildflowers found at various elevations include mountain shooting star, Western columbine, elephant’s head, and slim larkspur.

New planting options include pinks, sweet alyssum, larkspurs, snapdragons, Iceland poppies, stocks, foxgloves, wallflowers, ornamental Swiss chard, and petunias. These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word ‘larkspur’. Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.

How can you tell the difference between larkspur and Delphinium?

Delphinium, a plant belonging to the genus Delphinium, is known by various names such as larkspur, candle larkspur, rocket larkspur, and bee larkspur. It can be annual, biennial, or perennial, while larkspur is an annual plant. Delphiniums have a more elongated and dense flower spike with individual blooms tightly packed together, while larkspurs have a looser, less dense spike.

Delphiniums have deeply lobed, palmate leaves, while larkspurs have more finely divided leaves. They are taller, reaching up to six feet tall, and bloom in early to mid-summer. They are highly toxic if ingested, while larkspurs are less toxic. Delphiniums are known for their vibrant color, stunning addition, pollinator-friendly, long blooming season, undemanding growth, and deer and rabbit resistance.

To plant Delphinium, it requires full sun to part shade, well-draining soil rich in organic matter, consistent moisture, shelter from strong winds, and a temperature range between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) during the day and 45°F to 55°F (7°C to 13°C) at night. They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7, where they can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C).

High humidity and excessively hot temperatures can cause the plants to wilt and weaken, so it’s important to ensure they are planted in a location with good air circulation and well-draining soil. Delphiniums need consistent moisture, especially during the growing season, but should not be waterlogged.

Delphiniums are commonly grown in borders and cottage gardens due to their tall spires of colorful flowers that add vertical interest and charm. They can be used as a backdrop to lower-growing plants or as a focal point in a mixed border. Consider planting delphiniums in groups of three or more to create a more impactful display.

Is larkspur poisonous to touch?

The larkspur plant is poisonous, with its leaves and seeds causing skin irritation and eating causing severe illness and death. Cattle are most likely to experience larkspur poisoning due to its early blossoming and lack of other grazing options. Larkspur toxicity is highest during early growth stages but remains toxic throughout its lifespan. Sheep and goats are not affected by larkspur and can graze away it in fields and ranges.

Is July delphinium or larkspur?

Delphiniums, also known as the “Larkspur” flower, are a popular species of the Tall, California, and Royal Larkspurs. They are found in abundance during the summer and are July’s official birth flower, making them an ideal gift for special July celebrations. Delphinium arrangements are known for their bright summer color and soft texture, making them a beautiful addition to any bouquet. This guide to Delphiniums provides an understanding of its meaning and offers a curated selection of Larkspur arrangements to delight recipients. It also highlights fun facts about Delphiniums and their favorite arrangements.

What plant is like larkspur?

Salvia, a plant with the ability to withstand periods of drought, is an optimal choice for Florida gardens due to its minimal maintenance requirements and resilience to arid conditions. Liatris, also known as blazing star or gayfeather, produces tall spikes of purple or white flowers and is a native plant that provides sustenance for local wildlife. It is a sun-loving plant that thrives in well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for Florida’s climate.

What is another name for larkspur?

The genus Delphinium, derived from the Greek word “delphis,” meaning dolphin, is also known by several other names, including Lark’s Heel, Lark’s Claw, and Knight’s Spur. It was utilized by both Native Americans and European settlers for the purpose of creating a blue dye, and it is thought to have been employed as a means of deterring scorpions. The July birth flowers symbolize openness of heart, attachment, and lightness.

Is larkspur poisonous?

Larkspur poisoning is a serious issue that requires careful management. There is no proven treatment for this poisoning, but cholinergic drugs like physostigmine or neostigmine have been suggested to treat poisoned animals. However, their effects on larkspur’s lethal effects are unproven. Conservative therapy, such as placing an affected animal on its brisket or chest, is recommended to reduce bloating and treat bloat. It is crucial not to overexcite affected animals until they can clear the toxins.

Graining early before plants flower may be beneficial in some areas, but cattle should be kept off ranges until the plants mature. Aversion conditioning can also be used to prevent cattle from eating larkspur. It is important not to graze cattle on larkspur ranges treated with herbicide until the larkspur is senescent in the fall, as herbicide treatment may increase palatability but does not lower toxicity.

Are hydrangeas poisonous?

Hydrangea and Oleander are two plants with varying levels of poisonous content. Hydrangea contains cyanide, which can cause shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, and rapid pulse. Oleander, known for its fragrant blossoms and deep green leaves, is poisonous for children and pets. A small amount of the poison can kill a baby or toddler, targeting the digestive system, central nervous system, and circulatory system, causing slowed heart rate, seizures, coma, and death in some cases.

Are larkspur and snapdragons the same?

Larkspur is a one-cut crop, meaning that it produces multiple stems, allowing for harvesting over a period of approximately two weeks. To extend the harvesting period, it is recommended to sow the crop in two-week intervals. Larkspur can be planted as close as 4 inches apart, though spacing of 9 inches or closer is not recommended. The most prevalent spacing for these crops is 7 inches by 7 inches. To extend the harvesting period, it is recommended to sow the crop in two-week intervals.

What are the side effects of larkspur?

Larkspur, a plant native to the Mediterranean, is generally not toxic to horses unless there is a lack of suitable forage. However, its toxicity may vary depending on seasonal changes and field conditions. As the plant matures, it becomes less toxic. The alkaloids in the plant cause neuromuscular paralysis, with symptoms including constipation, colic, increased salivation, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, recumbency, and convulsions. Cardiac failure may occur and respiratory paralysis can lead to death.