Family: Ranunculaceae

There are over 500 species of Delphinium native throughout the Northern Hemisphere and also on the high mountains of tropical Africa.

The genus name Delphinium derives from the Ancient Greek word δελφίνιον (delphínion) which means "dolphin", a name used in De Materia Medica for some kind of larkspur. Pedanius Dioscorides said the plant got its name because of its dolphin-shaped flowers.

Various delphiniums are cultivated as ornamental plants, and they are famous in garden centers around the world. There are many hybrids sold on the market. Most delphinium hybrids and cultivars are derived from D. elatum (native to temperate Asia and Europe).

There are 9 species of Delphinium native to Arizona.

Most of our Delphinium species benefit from some afternoon shade, amended soil, and moderate to regular moisture with well-drained soil. Most species are very cold hardy.

Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies benefit from the nectar-rich flowers. Many moth species use Delphinium as larval hosts. Plants are poisonous to animals and people.

Photo of Delphinium scaposum by Max Licher, SEINET