upland larkspur
ExplorePlants
upland larkspur
Delphinium nuttallianum
Upland larkspur is a beautiful flower that grows in the mountains. It has bright blue petals that look like little stars in the grass. These flowers are loved by bees and butterflies!
Habitat: Mountain regions
Appearance
The upland larkspur has striking blue-purple flowers arranged on tall stalks. Each flower features a distinctive rear spur, making it easily identifiable from similar wildflowers. Its delicate petals bring a vibrant splash of color to mountain meadows.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderRanunculalesFamilyRanunculaceaeGenusDelphinium
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Bumblebees with extra long tongues are the best at reaching this flower's sweet nectar!
Its name, 'larkspur,' comes from the flower's spur resembling a bird's claw!
Many wildflowers avoid eating it, but sometimes deer nibble on young sprouts!
Some Native American tribes once used larkspur extracts for medicinal purposes!
Special abilities
Ability
Toxic Shield
Upland larkspur has toxic compounds that help it defend against hungry animals trying to eat its leaves and flowers.
Ability
Pollinator Beacon
Upland larkspur has uniquely shaped, spurred flowers that help attract specific long-tongued bumblebees for perfect pollination.
Ability
Deep Drinker
Upland larkspur can grow deep roots that help it survive in dry, rocky mountain soils where other plants struggle.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 15-60 cm
- Spread
- 10-30 cm
- Flower Size
- 2-4 cm
- Bloom Season
- Spring to Early Summer
- Edible
- No
- Toxicity
- High
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
pollinates
Western Bumblebee
Bombus occidentalis
Collects nectar and pollen from its flowers.
eaten by
Mule Deer
Odocoileus hemionus
Occasionally browses young plants, despite toxicity.
eaten by
Elk
Cervus canadensis
Can graze on larkspur, especially young plants.
Traits
Flowering
Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.
Spring Blooming
Spring blooming plants produce their flowers during the spring season, often signifying the end of winter and the start of new growth.
Summer Blooming
Summer blooming plants produce their flowers during the summer season, often providing vibrant color when many other plants have finished.
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Mountain
This habitat trait identifies species found in mountainous regions, characterized by high elevation, steep slopes, and varying climate zones.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not touch or eat any wildflowers without asking an adult.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is upland larkspur?
15-60 cm
How wide does upland larkspur spread?
10-30 cm
How big are the flowers on upland larkspur?
2-4 cm
When does upland larkspur bloom?
Spring to Early Summer
Is upland larkspur edible?
No
Is upland larkspur toxic?
High
What is upland larkspur's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is upland larkspur pollinated?
Insect
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
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Where to spot
Park47 sightings7 species
British Columbia, CA
White Lake Grasslands Protected Area
You might spot Bitterroot, Arrowleaf Balsamroot, and Western Stoneseed.
View guide →
Park20 sightings4 species
British Columbia, CA
Stemwinder Provincial Park
You might spot Field Locoweed, Silky Lupine, and Wax Currant.
View guide →
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