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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Delphinium elatum 'Guardian Blue'

Guardian Blue Larkspur

Delphinium elatum 'Guardian Blue'
Family
Ranunculaceae
Height
30-40 inches
Width
12-16 inches
Flower color
Double, vivid blue flowers with purple overtones and white centers ("bees")
Foliage color
Deeply cut, dark green leaves
Bloom time
Late spring to mid-summer
Light
Full sun
Water
Average moisture
Maintenance
Cutting back in late fall is recommended
Growing zone
USDA zones 3a to 8
Wildlife
Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds; deer and rabbit resistant

About this plant

Delphinium elatum 'Guardian Blue' produces tall, elegant spires adorned with rich, deep blue-purple flowers, each accented by a white central bee (nectary). Blooming from early to mid-summer, these densely packed blossoms create a bold vertical element in garden beds and borders. Bred as part of the Guardian series, this cultivar was developed for its strong stems and reliable flowering, making it a standout choice for both ornamental displays and cut flower arrangements.

The vivid blue petals contrast beautifully with the plant's deeply lobed green foliage, adding depth and movement to the garden. After the initial summer bloom, a second flush of flowers may appear later in the season if spent blooms are promptly removed. The tall, graceful spikes not only add height but also invite pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the garden's natural rhythm and color.

Works well in

Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Rain Gardens

Companion plants

Coneflowers · Salvias · Shasta daisies · Asters · Catmint · Coreopsis

Design tip

Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.