The common name larkspur comes from the shape of the flower, which resembles a lark's spur or claw. Larkspurs have daintier flower spikes with fewer florets and fine, more deeply cut leaves. Some delphiniums grow up to 6 feet tall, making them excellent background plants. Others are much shorter. Blue Butterfly' is one of the shortest delphiniums maturing at 15 inches.
Delphiniums perform best in well-drained soils in full sun.
They are heavy feeders and should be fertilized in early spring and later in the season. Stunted growth and yellow foliage are signs the plants need additional fertilizer. The flower spikes of delphinium are hollow and brittle. Tall growing hybrids should be staked as wind and rain on the heavy, flower-laden spikes will cause the stems to snap and break. Stakes should be installed early in the growing season to prevent damage to the plant's root system and provide early support.