Delphinium menziesii aka Menzies's Larkspur

Delphinium menziesii, or Menzies' larkspur, is a perennial in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. It comes from western North America and grows in temperate climates. Its native range covers southern British Columbia, western Washington, and western Oregon. Wild plants grow on coastal bluffs, prairies, and lower mountain meadows. They also grow in open woods. These habitats extend from sea level to about 3,280 feet [1,000 metres].

This small perennial reaches about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres] tall. It flowers from April to June. Each flower has both male and female organs. The flowers can provide a blue dye. Gardeners can grow this species in cultivated beds. Its short height sets it apart from taller plants in a planting scheme. The supplied species account gives no details about its fruit or leaf shape.

Give Menzies' larkspur an open site in full sun. It does not grow in shade. It prefers rich soil that stays moist but drains well. Avoid ground that holds standing water. Sandy, loamy, and clay soils can all suit it with good drainage. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 3–7. The same source warns that it can hinder nearby plant growth. Legumes may be more prone to this effect.

Grow new plants from seed, basal cuttings, or division. Sow seed in a cold frame in March or April. Outdoor sowing can follow in May. Keep the seed moist and shaded until it sprouts. Germination takes two to nine weeks at 59°F [15°C]. Higher temperatures can hinder germination. Seed loses viability, so cool storage in a sealed container helps preserve it. Move seedlings into their own pots once large enough to handle. Plant them in their final sites in summer. Take basal cuttings in April or May, before their bases become hollow. Divide plants in spring or early autumn.

All parts are poisonous, and young plants pose the greatest risk. Plants For A Future records no edible uses. It reports past use of stalks and roots as poultices for sores. The leaves have also supplied a toxic substance used against parasites. These records describe past uses, not safe home treatments. Keep the plant's toxicity in mind when choosing a garden site.