Lavender Delphinium
Aurora Lavender Delphinium is a cold-hardy hybrid cultivar that brings striking lavender-blue flower spikes to northern gardens where many delphiniums struggle. Rising 36 to 48 inches tall with a spread of 24 to 36 inches, it commands attention in summer borders from June through August with densely packed blooms that attract pollinators while remaining deer-proof. Hardy in zone 3, this variety combines the classic elegance of tall delphiniums with the resilience needed for harsh winters.
18-24 inches apart
Full Sun
Moderate
3-3
48in H x 36in W
Perennial
Moderate
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Lavender-blue flower spikes tower over midsummer gardens with the commanding presence delphiniums are famous for, all while thriving in zone 3 where most delphinium varieties surrender to winter cold. Deer leave it untouched, yet bees and other pollinators visit religiously, making it both a practical and ecologically valuable choice. The combination of extreme hardiness, prolific bloom, and genuine garden impact makes this a rare find for northern gardeners who've watched other delphiniums fail.
Aurora Lavender Delphinium functions as a vertical accent in herbaceous borders and cottage gardens, creating height and structure that frame lower-growing perennials. The tall, densely-flowered spikes are valued in fresh cut arrangements where their architectural form lasts well in water.
Sow seeds indoors in trays kept at 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Start seeds 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost date to give transplants time to establish before moving outdoors.
Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Transplant into the garden after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed, spacing plants 1 inch apart initially.
Deadhead spent flower spikes promptly to encourage branching and extended blooming through late summer. Cut back the entire plant to 6 inches above ground in fall after frost has blackened the foliage, or wait until early spring to remove winter-killed growth.
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