Annuals
Perennials
Bulbs
Lilacs
Roses
Sunflowers

How to Grow Larkspur Flowers

Annual, Consolida Orientalis

Bold and attractive Larkspur flowers are a popular, old fashioned favorite. These hardy annuals grow light, feathery flowers atop tall spikes. There as a number of varieties, originating in western U.S., Eastern Asia, and Southern Asia. While dwarf varieties grow just 18", the most popular home garden varieties grow about 3'. The tallest plants can grow up to 8'.

These big plants grow quickly to produce flowers in spring, earlier than many annuals. Flower colors include light and dark pink, blue, rose, lavender and white.

Important Note: Larkspur are poisonous to some animals, most notably cattle. Keep children and pets away from them.

Larkspur are excellent massed in groups. Tall plants look their best in the back of the flower garden. They are good as cut flowers, and can be dried for winter arrangements.

Plant Propagation:

Grow Larkspur from seed. Directly sow Larkspur seeds into your flower garden after all danger of frost.

Sow seeds early in the season and cover lightly with 1/8" of garden soil. Space seeds 4 inches apart, and thin seedlings to 10-12 inches apart.

How to Grow Larkspur Plants:

Grow Larkspur plants in full sun to partial shade. Easy to grow plants are fast growers. Grow them in average to rich soils. They prefer cool weather. When growing in average soils, add compost and manure prior to planting.

Water plants during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer every two weeks prior to blooming. Use a fertilizer high in potassium just prior to blooming.

Cut blooms just before they peak. Place in vase and arrange with other flowers, or alone by themselves.

Insect and Disease:

Larkspur are susceptible to both  fungal diseases and mildews. Treat affected plants immediately with a general purpose fungicide. Remove seriously diseased plants to keep the disease from spreading. Applying fungicides prior to experiencing problems is a good defensive measure for these plants.

Insect problems are less frequent. Apply insecticides as needed.

Shop For:

Garden Seeds & Supplies