What Does the Flower Larkspur Look Like?

Larkspur--scientific name, Delphinium tricorne--is generally classified as a poisonous weed. It is particularly dangerous to grazing cattle. It is important to be able to identify it in order to eradicate this otherwise attractive plant in pastures and home landscapes.

Basics of Plant Identification

Larkspur before fully opened

There are many look-alikes in the plant world. Therefore, in order to correctly identify a flowering plant such as larkspur it is important to not only be able to recognize the bloom but also to recognize other parts of the plant and where the plant grows.

Flowers

The blossoms of the larkspur are small and star shaped. One sepal and two petals form a characteristic "spur."

Flower Placement

Larkspur flowers are arranged along a hairy stem that may grow to about 16 inches.

Leaves

The leaves of a larkspur are deeply lobed and joined at a single point. The leaves may appear hairy as well.

Habitat

Larkspur grows wild in many Southern states and Western range lands, along streams, on sand hills and in fields.

Cultivate with Caution

Although larkspur is marketed as a garden plant due to its appealing blossoms and foliage, it should be cultivated with great caution if young children or curious pets are likely to frequent the garden. There is no antidote for larkspur poisoning, which can result in convulsions and death.

References

• Virginia Tech Weed Identification Guide
• University of Pennsylvania
• Purdue University