Delphinium and larkspur are known for their magnificently tall flower spikes, which bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers symbolize lightness, the desire for fun, and cheerfulness. However, the exact symbolism varies depending on the flower color and culture.
In this article, we’ll dive into the rich symbolism these tall flowers represent. When you’re finished reading, you’ll have even more reasons to choose delphinium and larkspur next time you order flower delivery online.
What’s the Difference Between Delphinium and Larkspur?
While people often use the terms delphinium and larkspur to refer to the same flowers, they aren’t always identical. You can use the word delphinium to refer to any plant in the Delphinium genus, but people often refer to these plants by the common name larkspur. However, the term larkspur can also refer to flowering plants in the Consolodia genus.
So, while all delphiniums are larkspurs, not all larkspurs are delphiniums. Therefore, many people in the flower world use the term larkspur to refer to species in the Consolodia genus and the term delphinium to refer to species in the Delphinium genus.
About Larkspur and Delphinium Flowers
Larkspur and delphinium plants are known for their elegant spires of vibrant, densely-packed flowers. Depending on the species, the flower stalk may be anywhere from ten inches to five feet tall. The blooms come in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white, with blue being the most popular and well-known option.
When you look closely at the blooms, you’ll see the flowers’ uniqueness. Each bloom is made up of petal-like sepals that are fused together to form a shallow trumpet-like shape. Each flower also displays a long spur-like shape at the back of the flower, which explains the common name larkspur.
The plants’ foliage varies depending on the species. Some plants have feathery, divided foliage that adds a soft, delicate texture to gardens. Others have wider, deeply dissected leaves that get smaller towards the top of the plants.
Larkspurs and delphiniums are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making them popular plants for cottage gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. Depending on the variety, planting time, and climate, they typically bloom in late spring to early summer.
Both of these plants make excellent cut flowers. Their tall flower stems help add contrast to shorter flowers, and smaller stems can be mixed in with other blooms.
While larkspur and delphinium are beautiful, they’re toxic to both humans and animals when ingested. Therefore, you should be extremely careful when planting or displaying them in areas accessible to pets or small children.
What Is the Meaning of Larkspur Flowers?
Larkspur flowers have a rich symbolism that dates back centuries. Their meaning is overall positive, with the flowers portraying feelings of love, lightheartedness, fun, sweetness, youthfulness, and an open heart.
Some people think the larkspur flower meaning meaning relates to the plant’s tendency to bloom in the late spring and early summer, just as school is ending for the year. The cheerful flowers encourage us to lean into the sense of wonder and excitement that children experience when looking forward to a summer filled with swimming, time with friends, and new adventures.
The larkspur flower’s positive meaning makes the tall flower stalks an excellent gift for celebrations like birthdays, graduations, and work promotions. They remind us to set time aside for fun and recognize sweet times when they exist.
These flowers come in numerous colors, so the exact larkspur meaning depends on the bloom’s hue. Here are what some common colors symbolize.
- Blue: Dignity, grace, and encouragement
- Purple: First love and new beginnings
- Pink: Joy, sweetness, and lightheartedness.
- White: Purity, innocence, and remembrance
Historical and Cultural Significance of Larkspur Flowers
Throughout history, people have linked larkspur flowers to protection and love. Ancient Greeks believed that these flowering plants could ward off evil spirits, so they often kept them in or near their homes. Some Native American tribes valued larkspur for its meaning of open hearts and strong bonds. They often incorporated the flowers into ceremonies to promote unity and goodwill.
In England, people sprinkled larkspur flowers in bathwater for protection, and during the Victorian era, they were popular gifts among friends and loved ones. People also used the flowers to create dyes, and help with medical issues such as lice and scorpion stings.
Mythological and Religious Larkspur Meaning
Larkspurs are entwined with various legends. A Native American tale speaks of a celestial being who descended to Earth using a spike made from pieces of the sky. When this spike touched the ground, it transformed into larkspur flowers.
Another tale relates to Christianity and Jesus’s crucifixion. The story says that after Christ was crucified a rabbit waited in the darkness until Christ arose from his grave. Jesus saw the rabbit and showed it tiny blue larkspur flower, and the creature’s face was imprinted on the flower. Therefore, the larkspur flower meaning also relates to trust in Christ.
What Is the Meaning of Delphinium Flowers?
Delphinium flowers have similar meanings as larkspur. And that makes sense when you remember that these two flowers are often the same. The delphinium symbolism relates to open hearts, cheerfulness, and protection. The flowers are great options for sending positive vibes to your loved ones during both celebratory events and serious moments.
Although the delphinium meaning is similar to that of larkspur, there’s a unique tale relating to this genus of flowers. In ancient Greek mythology, people believed delphiniums sprung from the blood of the hero Ajax. The flower’s petals were inscribed with the letters “Ai” meaning “alas,” symbolizing mourning and remembrance.
How to Grow Delphinium and Larkspur
Both of these plants add beauty and height to cottage gardens and cut flower patches. They tower above smaller flowering plants and add beautiful blue shades that are difficult to find in the floral world.
These plants love cool weather, so plant them in the ground in the early spring a few weeks before your last frost arrives. Starting the seeds indoors and transplanting the seedlings outdoors is the most reliable method, but you can also directly sow the seeds in your garden.
No matter which option you select, plant the flowers in an area with full sun or partial shade. If you live in a warm area, afternoon shade will help protect the heat-sensitive plants from harsh rays. You should also choose a location with well-draining soil.
Keep the soil moist as the flowers grow, and provide stakes as necessary. The flower will begin to bloom sometime in the late spring to early summer. If you cut the main flower stalk, the plants will continue to produce flowering side stalks that you can cut or enjoy in the garden.
Learn More About the Flowers You Love
Whether you want to order a bouquet that sends the perfect message to your friend or are interested in learning more about your favorite flowers, exploring the meaning behind some popular flowers is fun. Now that you know about larkspur flower meaning, go ahead and learn about the meaning of yarrow flowers and zinnia flower symbolism.
When it comes time to order flowers, we’re here for you. We carefully source our flowers from farms that use sustainable practices so you can feel good about your purchase. And since our flowers never sit around in warehouses, you’ll receive farm-fresh flowers with unmatched beauty.
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