perennial

Red Lark Larkspur

Delphinium ajacis 'Red Lark'

The Story

Plant Bio

Delphinium ajacis 'Red Lark' is a tall perennial with striking red flowers that attract pollinators.

This cultivar is noted for its vibrant red flower spikes and is great for cut flower arrangements.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright red spikes add striking vertical interest to gardens and floral arrangements.

Provides early season color and attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

Supports local pollinator populations and enhances biodiversity.

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; keep soil moist

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested; keep away from pets and children

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during growing season.
Provide support with stakes or cages as Delphinium ajacis grows tall.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer for vibrant blooms.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to maintain health.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds in the fall for earlier blooms the following year.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Stake tall stems to prevent wind damage
Deadhead regularly for prolonged flowering
Apply fertilizer monthly during active growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t forget to mulch to conserve moisture
Never neglect support for tall stems
Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-drained clay soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower border with striking red spikesTall accent plant in cottage garden bedsColorful cut flower for bouquets

Companion Plants

Delphinium elatumFoxglove Lupine Salvia Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Lark Larkspur questions

What zones can Red Lark Larkspur grow in?

Red Lark Larkspur 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 Red Lark Larkspur deer resistant?

Yes — Red Lark Larkspur is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Red Lark Larkspur bloom?

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

Does Red Lark Larkspur need full sun?

Red Lark Larkspur does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.