perennial

Belladonna Delphinium

Delphinium x belladonna 'Dark Blue Dark Bee'

The Story

Plant Bio

A group of hybrid delphiniums known for their branching, airy flower spikes and finely-cut foliage. They are generally more heat tolerant and less formal in appearance than the tall Elatum Group hybrids.

This cultivar features intense, deep gentian blue florets, each with a contrasting dark, brownish-black 'bee' (the central petals).

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDelphinium x belladonna provides tall, vibrant blue flowers that enhance garden borders and cut flower arrangements.
Practical UsesIts striking appearance can serve as a visual focal point in garden design.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds during blooming season.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Horticultural Origin

Toxicity

Yes

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
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S
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sunny location with well-drained soil to plant Delphinium x belladonna.
  2. Tuck seeds or young plants into the soil, spacing them about 18-24 inches apart for airflow.
  3. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth, especially in early stages.
  4. Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active growth.
  6. Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage and support flower display.

Pro Tip

Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, enhancing growth and bloom quality.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Feed with a high-phosphorus fertilizer during blooming season
  • Stake tall plants for support

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t disturb roots when transplanting
  • Refrain from pruning in late fall to protect overwintering buds

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, dramatic flower borderVertical accent in cottage gardensColorful cut flower display

Companion Plants

Shasta Daisy CoreopsisEchinaceaSalviaLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Belladonna Delphinium questions

What zones can Belladonna Delphinium grow in?

Belladonna Delphinium is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Belladonna Delphinium deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Belladonna Delphinium, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Belladonna Delphinium bloom?

Belladonna Delphinium typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Belladonna Delphinium need full sun?

Belladonna Delphinium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Belladonna Delphinium with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.