Herb latin name: Delphinium elatum


Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)



Medicinal use of Delphinium elatum:

The whole plant, but especially the seeds, is anthelmintic, aperient, diuretic and emetic.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
100 cm
(3 1/4 foot)

Flowering:
June
to July

Habitat of the herb:

Temperate areas from 3000 - 3600 metres. Grassy slopes at elevations of 1900 - 2100 metres in Tibet.

Other uses of Delphinium elatum:

The seed contains 1.7% alkaloids and is used as an insecticide.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow March/April in a cold frame or May outdoors. Keep moist and in a shady position until germination takes place. The seed has a limited viability so it should be stored in a sealed container at about 3°C. Temperatures above 15°C inhibit germination. The seed usually germinates in 2 - 9 weeks at 15°C. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out into their permanent positions in the summer. Cuttings of basal shoots in April/May, taken before they become hollow at the base, and planted in a cold frame. Division in spring or early autumn.

Cultivation of Delphinium elatum:

Temperate areas from 3000 - 3600 metres. Grassy slopes at elevations of 1900 - 2100 metres in Tibet.

Known hazards of Delphinium elatum:

All parts of the plant are toxic. The plant is most toxic when it is young.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.