Larkspur Plants

Description

• The plants have 2-to-3-foot-tall spikes of flowers in various shades of pink, light purple, blue or white. The single or branched flower spikes are composed of 2-inch-wide florets curved at the base. Each floret has five sepals, with four shaped like petals and the fifth as a spur. Larkspur foliage is feathery in form and bright green colored. The flower spikes are shorter on the dwarf varieties like dwarf rocket.

Medicinal Uses

• Larkspur plants are highly effective for the control of lice and crablice and for the relief of scabies itch, according to Ana Nez Heatherley in "Healing Plants" (1998). The preparation method is outlined by Michael Moore in "Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West" (2003). Gather the seeds, buds and flowers of larkspur and mix together one part of ground plant parts with five parts of vinegar, alcohol or green soap. Let the mixture steep for seven days and then strain. Apply on hair for lice or on skin for scabies. Do not use on irritated, scratched or sore skin areas.

Toxicity

• All parts of the larkspur are toxic to humans and animals upon ingestion at all stages of plant growth, warns the University of Pennsylvania Extension. The plants are one of the main causes of heavy loss of cattle in the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains regions. Though horses and sheep are also prone to toxic reactions, cattle are more severely affected. Symptoms of toxicity include muscle tremors, disorientation and stiffness. There is bloating followed by aspiration pneumonia and death from respiratory paralysis.

Cultural Conditions

• Grow larkspur in an area of full sun and a moist soil for best growth. Amend soil by incorporating 1 to 2 inches of compost prior to planting. Larkspur responds well to regular application of nitrogen. The Maryland Cooperative Extension recommends 1 pound of 10-5-10 fertilizer for 100 square feet. The plants are easy to grow with seed and also self sow. Recommended time for planting seed is during fall or early spring. Irrigate regularly especially during dry spells. Larkspur is hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 11.