Native Delphinium
Delphinium exaltatum
Slender spires of rich blue-violet in midsummer without the staking and fuss of hybrid delphiniums. Hummingbirds and bumblebees seek it out.
Typically 1 pint–1 gal · $9–$30 · final price at pickup
- Thu, Sep 248 AM – 4 PM
- Fri, Sep 258 AM – 4 PM
- Sat, Sep 268 AM – 2 PM
Deep blue-violet flower spikes in midsummer that hummingbirds seek out. and none of the finicky care demands of the hybrid garden delphiniums.
Native delphinium is the wildflower answer to the fussy hybrid garden delphiniums that demand staking, soil amendments, and constant attention. This species grows naturally on moist wooded slopes and stream banks across the Appalachians and Ozarks, producing slender spires of rich blue to violet flowers in midsummer that are genuinely beautiful without any of the maintenance overhead. The color is intense: that deep clear blue-violet that's rare in native plants. Hummingbirds and bumblebees are its primary pollinators, both attracted by the tubular flower shape and rich nectar. Plant it in drifts at the back of a shaded border or along a stream bank and let it self-seed gently to expand over time.
A nursery-grown plant, ready for the ground.
Healthy, container-grown native delphinium propagated on-site at Hill House from regional genetics. Includes a one-page care card. We make every effort to supply plants as listed; occasionally we substitute a similar species of equal value.
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Average
- Mature size
- 3–5 ft · 18–24 in wide
- Bloom time
- Midsummer, late summer
- Bloom color
- Purple, Blue
- USDA zones
- 4–8
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Native range
- Eastern United States (PA to NC, west to OH and MO)
Care notes for native delphinium.
Full sun to part shade in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Consistent moisture is important. this is a stream-bank plant at heart. Staking may be needed in exposed locations. Cut back after bloom to encourage reblooming. Self-seeds modestly. All plant parts are toxic if ingested.
Pairs well with these.
Same light, same soil, same wildlife. Janet's picks to plant alongside native delphinium.
Or skip the guesswork.
Curated packages bundle complementary species for an instant habitat. One reservation, one pickup day, a printed layout map.
Skyline Drive Package
This package celebrates the world renowned “Skyline Drive” by featuring native plant species encountered along the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.
Piedmont Rain Garden Package
For homeowners with a yard that floods when it rains, this package is your solution! The Piedmont Swale Garden Package is comprised of flood tolerant species that will thrive in wet soils.
Exceptional Patio Garden Package
The Exceptional Patio Garden Package is a low maintenance, fool proof way to guarantee an endless color show for you and your guests to enjoy all patio season long.