Carolina larkspur (Delphinium carolinianum, Fl. Carol.: 155 (1788))

Family: Ranunculaceae

Author: Walter

Bibliography: Fl. Carol.: 155 (1788)

Year: 1788

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Delphinium

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. Canada to NE. Mexico

Description

The Carolina larkspur, scientifically named Delphinium carolinianum, is a captivating wildflower belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. This species was first described by Walter in 1788 in his seminal work “Flora Caroliniana” on page 155, shedding light on its rich botanical history.

Native to North America, the Carolina larkspur can be found across a wide geographical range, spanning from Canada to northeastern Mexico. This hardy perennial is well adapted to various climates and environments within this extensive range, showcasing its resilience and ecological versatility.

The Carolina larkspur is admired for its striking, spurred blue to violet flowers, which bloom in tall, elegant spikes. These floral spikes can rise impressively above the plant, drawing attention with their vibrant color and distinctive form. The blooms are not just visually appealing; they also play a crucial role in local ecosystems, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, thereby supporting biodiversity.

In terms of cultivation and care, Delphinium carolinianum thrives best in well-drained soils with access to full or partial sunlight. Gardeners and plant enthusiasts often favor it for its ornamental beauty and adaptability, making it a well-loved addition to both natural landscapes and curated garden spaces.

In conclusion, the Carolina larkspur stands out not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its enduring presence across a significant portion of North America. Walter’s early documentation of this species paved the way for its appreciation and study, securing its place in the annals of botany.

Common Names

Eng: carolina larkspur, blue larkspur
Fra: pied-d’alouette de caroline
En: Carolina larkspur, Blue larkspur
Ar: عائق كاروليني
Zh: 卡罗莱纳翠雀花
Fr: Pied-d’alouette de Caroline

Synonyms

• Delphinastrum carolinianum ((Walter) Nieuwl.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 16, 2021 by Melissa Mort (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 17, 2021 by Kelsey C. (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 27, 2019 by J W (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2021 by karen sheffer (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 16, 2022 by julie plantlover (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 11, 2020 by pauline leg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 27, 2021 by Andrew Arnold (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Keith Gebhardt (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 20, 2019 by Kirk Lawson (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 27, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Keith Gebhardt (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 15, 2014 by EOL − Judith Lopez Sikora (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 10, 2013 by EOL − Judith Lopez Sikora (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 12, 2013 by EOL − Royal Tyler (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 13, 2013 by EOL − Daniel Carter (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 9, 2019 by Keith Gebhardt (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3033700)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:710479-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Delphinium carolinianum Walter)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth