Candle Larkspur is a striking perennial delphinium that brings towering spires of deep purple flowers to cool-climate gardens from June through July. Hardy from zones 3 to 7, this European native grows 36 to 48 inches tall and produces dense, showy flower spikes that have been cultivated since 1578. The flowers are exceptional for cutting, and both butterflies and hummingbirds are drawn to the blooms, making it a magnet for pollinator activity. Deer leave it untouched, and it thrives in full sun with moderate watering and fertile, well-drained soil.
Full Sun
Moderate
3-7
48in H x 36in W
—
High
Hover over chart points for details
The deep purple flower spikes rise like candles above the foliage, densely packed with florets that command attention in any garden. This variety attracts hummingbirds and butterflies while remaining deer-proof, a rare combination in tall perennials. Its longevity as a cultivated plant stretches back centuries, proving its reliability in gardens across the northern hemisphere, and it cuts beautifully for arrangements that last.
Candle Larkspur shines as a cut flower, where its tall, densely-flowered spikes bring architectural drama to arrangements. In the garden, it anchors the back border or cottage garden planting, where its height and saturated color create strong vertical lines. Gardeners also grow it specifically to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a magnet planting for pollinator gardens and wildlife habitat.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before your last spring frost. Sow seeds in well-draining seed-starting mix and keep soil temperature between 60 and 75°F. Seeds benefit from light during germination, so do not cover them completely. Transplant seedlings outdoors after hardening off once soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date once they have developed true leaves and been hardened off over 7 to 10 days. Space plants 24 to 36 inches apart to allow for their mature width. Plant at the same depth as they were growing in containers; planting too deep encourages crown rot.
For cut flowers, harvest spikes in early morning after dew dries but before heat stress. Cut spikes when the lower florets are fully open and upper florets show good color; they will continue to open in the vase over several days. Use a sharp knife and cut stems at an angle, removing lower foliage that would sit below the waterline.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the June to July bloom period to encourage secondary flowering and maintain plant vigor. In late summer or fall, cut the flowering stems back after bloom fades. Stake tall stems early in the season to protect them from strong winds and heavy rain, which can damage the dense flower spikes.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.
“Delphinium elatum, the species behind Candle Larkspur, has roots deep in European horticulture. It is native to clearings, woodland margins, and river valleys from southern and central Europe to Siberia, thriving in cool mountain and temperate regions. Species plants have been cultivated since 1578, making them among the oldest garden perennials in continuous use. Over centuries of selection and breeding, gardeners across Europe and North America refined the plant into the tall, showy varieties we grow today, with Candle Larkspur emerging as one of the most reliable deep-colored forms for temperate gardens.”