Delphinium 'Royal Aspirations' |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Series Name: NEW MILLENNIUM™ Delphiniums
Common Name: Delphinium-Hybrid Bee |
Bold spires of mixed shades of blue flowers with white bees stand up to 6' tall, adding a dramatic presence to the landscape in early summer. Removing spent flower spikes will result in another round of blooms on secondary spikes in late summer and fall. However, its large, coarsly textured leaves make this plant attractive even when it's not in bloom.
The English hybrid type of delphiniums are bred by Dowdeswell's Delphiniums in New Zealand and are hand crossed to produce the highest quality seed. These F1 hybrids have excellent form, strong stems, and a vigorous growth habit. They were selected for their improved tolerance of heat and humidity, while retaining their cold hardiness.
Breeder: Terry Dowdeswell
Introducer: Dowdeswell's Delphiniums
Origin: Not Native to North America
Characteristics:
Height:
4-6 Feet
Spread:
18-24 Inches
Flower Color:
Blue shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Part shade (4-6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Average water needs
Want to see wings?:
Attracts butterflies
Attracts hummingbirds
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
Rabbit resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Early summer
Late summer
Early fall
How's your soil?:
Average Soil
Fertile Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Cottage
Eclectic
Delphiniums thrive in the cooler climates of the north country, though they will grow as far south as zone 7. The New Millenium hybrids, however, tend to be more tolerant of heat and humidity. They grow best in rich, well-drained soil with a basic pH. If your soil is naturally acidic, adding lime will help to provide these conditions. They are also heavy feeders. The addition of compost or manure to the soil as well the use of granular fertilizer will result in healthier, stronger plants.
Delphiniums can be grown in full sun or partial shade, though full sun may help to prevent powdery mildew. When planting, be sure to set the crown at or above soil level to avoid rot. Since their stems are hollow, taller varieties of Delphiniums should be staked to prevent damage from wind and rain. These new hybrids tend to be longer lived than their short-lived cousins but may be propagated from basal cuttings.