1 / 4

Key characteristics

Family: Ranunculaceae
Height: 3-4 feet
Width: 1.5-2 feet
Flower color: Royal purple, semi-double flowers with white centers
Foliage color: Green, deeply lobed leaves
Bloom time: Early summer, with potential for reblooming in late summer if deadheaded
Light: Full sun
Water: Average
Maintenance: Moderate; staking may be necessary to support tall flower spikes
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 8
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds; deer and rabbit resistant

Perennials

Delphinium elatum 'Aurora Deep Purple'

Aurora Deep Purple Larkspur

Delphinium elatum 'Aurora Deep Purple' is a deciduous perennial known for its tall, densely packed spires of semi-double, royal purple flowers, each featuring a distinctive pure white center, referred to as a "bee." These large blooms emerge in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators and adding a lively touch to garden spaces.

As part of the Aurora™ series, this cultivar was bred for uniform growth and sturdy stems, making it particularly suitable for use as cut flowers.

Light

Full sun

Water

Average

Bloom time

Early summer, with potential for reblooming in late summer if deadheaded

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Sun Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Hummingbird Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Catmint · Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)