White Cloud Larkspur (Consolida ajacis) is an heirloom annual that produces delicate spires of white flowers from spring through summer, reaching 24 to 36 inches tall. This deer-resistant variety thrives in full sun across hardiness zones 4 through 13 and blooms reliably within 98 days from seed to flower. Its upright growth habit and moderate water needs make it a low-fuss addition to cottage gardens, cut flower arrangements, and pollinator spaces.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
4-13
36in H x 12in W
—
High
Hover over chart points for details
These tall, elegant flower spikes emerge in pure white and sustain blooms from March through August, attracting bees and other pollinators while remaining unpalatable to deer. Direct sowing outdoors in early spring is the recommended approach, and seeds need darkness to germinate, a quirk that rewards gardeners who follow planting depth instructions carefully. The heirloom pedigree means you're growing a variety with history, one that has survived in cultivation because gardeners kept saving and replanting its seeds.
White Cloud Larkspur is primarily grown as a cut flower for bouquets and arrangements, where its tall spires add vertical interest and an airy, cottage-garden charm. The flowers are also edible, though they are typically used for ornamental purposes rather than culinary applications.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Starting indoors is not recommended for White Cloud Larkspur; the variety responds best to direct outdoor sowing.
Direct sow seeds outdoors in early spring 3 to 4 weeks before your last spring frost, or in early autumn in zones 7 through 10 for winter and early spring blooms. Press seeds into prepared soil and cover lightly to ensure they are in darkness, which is essential for germination.
For cut flowers, harvest spikes in the morning after dew dries but before the heat of the day. Cut stems when the lowest flowers on the spike are just opening; upper flowers will continue to open in the vase. Stems are long enough for full arrangements and will last several days in water.
No pruning is required for this upright annual variety. Deadheading spent flower spikes will encourage continued blooming throughout the season if you wish to extend the flowering period.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.