Delphinium
Delphinium
Delphinium (/dɛlˈfɪniəm/), also known as larkspur, is a genus of about 300 species of perennial flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae, native throughout the Northern Hemisphere and also on the high mountains of tropical Africa.
Etymology
The name "delphinium" originates from the Latin for "dolphin", referring to the shape of the nectary.
Description
Delphiniums are herbaceous perennials with showy flowers and often deeply lobed leaves. The flowers are usually blue, purple, white or pink. They are popular in gardens and landscapes for their tall, spiky blooms.
Species
There are approximately 300 species of delphinium. Some of the most well-known include:
- Delphinium elatum - Also known as alpine delphinium or candle larkspur.
- Delphinium grandiflorum - Also known as Siberian larkspur.
- Delphinium staphisagria - Also known as lice-bane or stavesacre.
Cultivation and uses
Delphiniums are popular in ornamental gardens for their tall, showy spikes of flowers. They are also used in the cut flower industry. Some species are used in traditional medicine.
Toxicity
All parts of the delphinium plant are toxic to humans and livestock. The plant contains alkaloids that can cause nausea, twitching muscles, paralysis, and death.
Related terms
- Ranunculaceae - The family to which delphiniums belong.
- Perennial plant - A type of plant that lives for more than two years.
- Alkaloid - A class of naturally occurring organic compounds that contain mostly basic nitrogen atoms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Delphinium
- Wikipedia's article - Delphinium
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