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:
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
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil to plant Delphinium x belladonna.
- Tuck seeds or young plants into the soil, spacing them about 18-24 inches apart for airflow.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth, especially in early stages.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active growth.
- 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
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
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.
More Delphinium to compare

Delphinium 'Double Blue'
Delphinium elatum 'Double Blue'

Larkspur
Delphinium elatum 'Magic Fountain Lavender'

Summer Nights Larkspur
Delphinium elatum 'Summer Nights'

Faust Delphinium
Delphinium elatum 'Faust'

Cobalt Dreams Delphinium
Delphinium elatum 'Cobalt Dreams'

Pacific Giant Delphinium
Delphinium x belladonna 'Pacific Giant'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
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.

