Candle larkspur, English Larkspur

Delphinium elatum

Physical Characteristics

Delphinium elatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Aperient Diuretic Emetic The whole plant, but especially the seeds, is anthelmintic, aperient, diuretic and emetic[240].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant are toxic[65, 172]. The plant is most toxic when it is young[200].