Herb: Larkspur


Latin name: Delphinium menziesii


Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)



Medicinal use of Larkspur:

A poultice of the stalks and roots has been applied to sores.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
50 cm
(1 foot)

Flowering:
April
to June

Habitat of the herb:

Coastal bluffs and prairies to lower montane meadows.

Other uses of Larkspur:

A parasiticide is obtained from the leaves. It is quite toxic and so is for external use only. A blue dye can be obtained from the flowers.

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 Larkspur:

Coastal bluffs and prairies to lower montane meadows.

Known hazards of Delphinium menziesii:

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.