Giant Delphinium
Delphinium exaltatum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moist, well-drained soil
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Delphinium exaltatum, commonly known as Tall Larkspur, is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its tall, erect stems and dense spires of vibrant blue flowers. It has deeply lobed, palmately divided leaves that add to its striking vertical appearance. This species is notable for its exceptional height and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to wildflower gardens and naturalized landscapes.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Stake tall plants for support during growth.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with rich, moist, well-drained soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist.
- Provide staking for tall flower spikes.
- Deadhead to promote prolonged blooming.
- Apply balanced fertilizer in spring.
Don't
- Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
- Don't plant in overly dry or sandy soil ❌
- Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Giant Delphinium questions
What zones can Giant Delphinium grow in?
Giant 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 Giant Delphinium deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Giant Delphinium, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Giant Delphinium bloom?
Giant Delphinium typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Giant Delphinium need full sun?
Giant 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'
Belladonna Delphinium
Delphinium x belladonna 'Dark Blue Dark Bee'
Faust Delphinium
Delphinium elatum 'Faust'
Pacific Giant Delphinium
Delphinium x belladonna 'Pacific Giant'
Summer Nights Larkspur
Delphinium elatum 'Summer Nights'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Giant 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.
