Delphinium grandiflorum 'Summer Nights'

Summer Series

Delphinium 'Summer Nights' Dwarf Delphinium

Common Name: Dwarf Delphinium

Totally unlike the tall, spiky Delphinium cultivars, this little beauty stands at a height of 10"-12" and forms compact mounds of well-branched foliage. It puts on a spectacular show from early summer to fall, with satiny midnight blue flowers which cover the lacy leaves. Though it is short-lived, it is worth using as edging, a bedding plant, or in containers combined with brightly colored annuals.

Delphinium are a classic garden perennial. These plants are excellent for adding height to small spaces. Their tall flower spikes are easily recognizable when they come into flower in summer. When in flower, the spikes of these plants become heavy and should be staked to avoid toppling over in rough weather, especially taller varieties. Newer hybrids are longer lived than some of the more traditional cultivars.

Height:

10.0-12.0 Inches

Spread:

12.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

3,4,5,6,7

Flower Color:

Blue shades

Foliage Color:

Green shades

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Average Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Average Soil Quality Fertile Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0) Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)

Bloomtime:

Early Summer Midsummer Late Summer Long Blooming

Attracts Wings:

Attracts Butterflies Attracts Hummingbirds

Critter Resistant:

Deer Resistant Rabbit Resistant

Growth Rate:

Medium

Garden Style:

Patio Container Cottage Eclectic

Other Features:

Border Plant Container Cut Flower Cut Foliage Edging Mass Planting Small

Origin:

Not Native to North America

Delphiniums thrive in the cooler climates of the north country, though they will grow as far south as zone 7. 'Summer Nights', however, has demonstrated better heat tolerance than some other cultivars. They grow best in rich, well-drained soil with a basic pH. If your soil is naturally acidic, adding lime will help to provide these conditions. They are also heavy feeders. The addition of compost or manure to the soil as well the use of granular fertilizer will result in healthier, stronger plants.

Delphiniums can be grown in full sun or partial shade, though full sun may help to prevent powdery mildew. When planting, be sure to set the crown at or above soil level to avoid rot. These perennials tend to be short-lived and often start to lose their vigor after 2-3 years. Expect to replant them every few years or propagate new plants from basal cuttings of the original specimens. 'Summer Nights' may self-seed, particularly in cool-summer regions.

Characteristics