Go Back Delphinium Summer Blues Dwarf

Posted: May 7, 2019 at 4:01 PM
Delphinium grandiflorum 'Summer Blues'
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    Plant Type: Perennials

    Totally unlike the tall, spiky Delphinium cultivars, this little beauty stands at a height of 10"-12" and forms compact mounds of well-branched foliage. It puts on a spectacular show from early summer to fall, with soft sky blue flowers which cover the lacy leaves. Though it is short-lived, it is worth using as edging, a bedding plant, or in containers combined with pastel colored annuals.

    Currently not available for online purchase.

    Growing & Maintenance Tips:

    Delphiniums thrive in the cooler climates of the north country, though they will grow as far south as zone 7. 'Summer Blues', however, has demonstrated better heat tolerance than some other cultivars. They grow best in rich, well-drained soil with a basic pH. If your soil is naturally acidic, adding lime will help to provide these conditions. They are also heavy feeders. The addition of compost or manure to the soil as well the use of granular fertilizer will result in healthier, stronger plants. Delphiniums can be grown in full sun or partial shade, though full sun may help to prevent powdery mildew. When planting, be sure to set the crown at or above soil level to avoid rot. These perennials tend to be short-lived and often start to lose their vigor after 2-3 years. Expect to replant them every few years or propagate new plants from basal cuttings of the original specimens. 'Summer Blues' may self-seed, particularly in cool-summer regions.

    Flower Color

    Sky blue

    Foliage Color

    Green

    Plant Spread

    12 in.

    Good Companions

    Baby's Breath (Gypsophila paniculata), Bellflower-Carpathian (Campanula carpatica), Coral Bells (Heuchera ), Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis sylvatica), Geranium-Hardy (Geranium ), Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla erythropoda), Pinks-Alpine (Dianthus ), Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum superbum), Silver Mound Artemesia (Artemisia schmidtiana)

    Plant Height

    10-12 in.

    Scape Height

    —

    Hardness Zone

    3-7

    Soil Moisture

    Average water needs

    Characteristics & Attributes

    Attributes

    Small/Miniature, Edging, Container, Mass Plant, Cut flower or foliage, Border

    Bloom Time

    Early summer to fall

    Critter Resistance

    Deer and rabbit resistant

    Exposure

    Full sun to part shade

    Growth Rate

    Medium

    Seasonal Interests

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