Delphinium Flowers

Delphiniums (larkspurs) are tall-spired members of the buttercup family, prized for vivid blues, purples, pinks, and whites. Grown as perennials or annuals, they add vertical drama to borders and bouquets and are classics of cottage gardens.

Occasions & recipients

Find flowers by occasion

Best occasions

  • Weddings and formal events
  • Graduations and promotions
  • Housewarmings and openings
  • July birthdays (birth flower)
  • Anniversaries and romantic celebrations

Suitable for

  • Romantic partner
  • Close friend
  • Colleague or boss
  • Teacher or mentor
  • Parents or family
Color taboos
  • All-white bouquets for celebratory occasions in parts of East Asia (white signifies mourning).
  • Deep purple-only bouquets for hospital visits in some regions (can feel somber).
  • Blue-only romantic gifts in Western contexts (may read as cool or distant).
  • Very dark palettes at children’s events (can feel too formal).
Card messages
  • Standing tall with you—may you reach new heights.
  • Wishing you grace and success in every step.
  • For your July day—larkspurs for a bright year ahead.
  • To dignity, courage, and an open heart.
  • Congratulations—may your path bloom as boldly as these spires.

At a glance

Key details

Quick reference for habitat, gifting etiquette, and safety when choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients.

Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow, how to present them thoughtfully, and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.

Botanical info

Taxonomy
Kingdom Plantae; Order Ranunculales; Family Ranunculaceae; Genus Delphinium (larkspur).
Distribution
Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and tropical high mountains; widely cultivated across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Conservation
Not globally threatened in cultivation; several wild Delphinium species have regional protection—avoid wild harvesting and source from responsible growers.
Presentation etiquette
Present in a tall vase or with stems sleeved and hydrated; keep spikes upright to prevent bending. Remove lower foliage, avoid heat, and mention toxicity if the recipient has pets or small children. Pair with airy greens for balance.
Ideal delivery time
Early morning on the event day or the afternoon prior to allow conditioning and hydration; keep cool and upright.
Toxicity
High. All parts—especially young leaves and seeds—contain toxic diterpenoid alkaloids (e.g., delphinine). Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset, neuromuscular effects, arrhythmias, and respiratory issues. Keep away from children, pets, and livestock; wear gloves when handling.
Allergenicity
Moderate. Pollen may bother allergy-prone individuals; sap can irritate skin—wear gloves when handling.

Meaning & taboos

Symbolism & color
Delphiniums symbolize dignity, grace, joyful openness, encouragement, and protection; they are also celebrated as the July birth flower (larkspur).

Growing & tools

Care & gear
Growing tips
Full sun (afternoon shade in hot climates); deep, fertile, well-drained soil, neutral to slightly alkaline. Keep evenly moist and mulch to cool roots. Stake early to support tall spikes; deadhead and cut back after first flush to encourage rebloom. Feed in spring and lightly after first bloom. Propagate by seed or basal cuttings. Watch for slugs/snails, powdery mildew, crown rot; avoid waterlogging and extreme heat.
Recommended tools
  • Stakes or tall plant supports
  • Soft plant ties or twine
  • Hand pruners
  • Gardening gloves
  • Watering wand or rose head
  • Slug/snail deterrent
Symbolizes
  • Dignity and grace
  • Open-heartedness
  • Encouragement and positivity
  • Protection
  • July birth flower (larkspur)