Larkspur sends up tall, elegant spires packed with spurred blooms in blue, purple, pink, and white, bringing height and cottage-garden charm to the early-summer border. It’s the birth flower of July.
Larkspur at a glance
- Botanical name: Consolida / Delphinium
- Family: Ranunculaceae
- Bloom season: early to midsummer
- Symbolism: positivity, an open heart, and strong love
About the larkspur
Annual larkspur (Consolida) and its perennial relative the delphinium (Delphinium) both belong to the buttercup family and carry their densely packed flowers on soaring stems. The common name refers to the spur behind each bloom, thought to resemble a lark’s claw. All parts of the plant are toxic.
Larkspur meaning and symbolism
Larkspur symbolizes positivity, an open heart, and strong bonds of love, with meanings that vary by color. It’s July’s birth flower.
Types of larkspur
Popular varieties worth knowing:
- Annual larkspur (Consolida) — easy from seed, self-sows
- Perennial delphinium — taller, more dramatic, returns each year
- Dwarf types — compact spires for the front of borders
- Colors — blue, purple, pink, and white
How to grow and care for larkspur
A few essentials keep this flower thriving:
- Sow annual larkspur in cool weather; it dislikes heat
- Give full sun and rich, moist, well-drained soil
- Stake the tall stems against wind
- Deadhead spent spikes to encourage more blooms
- Note: larkspur is toxic to people and animals
Larkspur FAQs
What is the difference between larkspur and delphinium?
They’re close relatives in the same family. ‘Larkspur’ usually refers to the annual Consolida, while ‘delphinium’ refers to the taller, longer-lived perennial Delphinium.
When does larkspur bloom?
Larkspur blooms in early to midsummer, sending up its tall flower spikes in the warm weather after a cool start to the growing season.
Is larkspur poisonous?
Yes. All parts of larkspur are toxic if eaten, to both people and livestock, so handle it with care and keep it away from children and animals.
Explore more
Browse more flower profiles, learn about flower meanings, or find your birth flower.