Species candle larkspur
blue flowers with white center, green leaves and dark-brown stems

candle larkspur

Delphinium elatum AURORA BLUE

Also Known As - perennial larkspur
Candle larkspur (Delphinium elatum AURORA BLUE) is truly an amazing plant. Its vibrant, sky blue petals display in an incredible candle-like shape. Growing to reach its remarkable 3 feet in height, it adds lush color to any garden. On top of its eye-catching floral display it is also incredibly fragrant. It has been admired as a beautiful addition to a outdoor space in the full height of summer. It attracts beneficial pollinators such as bumblebees and hornets to your garden. An incredible addition to any setting, candle larkspur will bring life and joy no matter what area it is grown in.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Blue Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun, Sheltered

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

blue Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Candle larkspur (Delphinium elatum AURORA BLUE) should be watered deep and thoroughly during its growing season, which is usually from May to September, depending on the region. During this time, water when the top 2 inches of soil becomes dry; it is important to never let the soil completely dry out. Plant should be watered until the soil is thoroughly saturated at the root level, but care should be taken to avoid overwatering and potential root rot. After the growing season has ended, reduce the frequency of watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

sunlight

Candle larkspur (Delphinium elatum Aurora Blue) need full sun to partial shade to grow best. This means that the plant should receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day (morning sun is best). In general, if placed in too much shade, this plant will become weak, spindly, and will not flower. If placed in too much direct sunlight, it may become burned or dried out. To ensure optimal growing conditions, it is best to place the plant in a spot that receives full sun for the morning hours and in partial shade for the afternoon hours.

pruning

Candle larkspur (Delphinium elatum AURORA BLUE) should be pruned in the spring and summer months. Pruning initiates when the plant reaches a height of 12 to 18 inches, but may need to be done more than once in the same growing season in order to redistribute the plant's growth and energy. Begin by pruning off up to 2-thirds of the stem, cutting it just below the flowering buds. This will help encourage bushy growth and help the plant become more manageable, as well as ensuring a continuous blooming phase throughout the summer. Additionally, break off spent flowers and dead stems at their base. This will help decrease the amount of unwanted self-seeding and help promote new blooms.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Delphinium elatum AURORA BLUE typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Delphinium elatum AURORA BLUE typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Delphinium elatum AURORA BLUE typically begins in July and continues through August.

Hardiness Map