Delphiniums are a unique and notable type of flowering plant. But many people may not know Delphinium’s full history and symbolism. Their origins date back to ancient Greece and the legends of the Greek god Apollo. Today, they come in a wide variety of colors and sizes, from dwarf varieties perfect for containers to towering hybrids reaching over six feet. Beyond their aesthetic beauty, Delphiniums also have practical uses and benefits. Read more before sending flowers online!
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The Origins of the Delphinium Flower
The delphinium flower gets its name from the Greek word “delphis” meaning dolphin. According to Greek mythology, delphiniums were named after the Delphi temple and were favored by the sun god Apollo. This is also one of the reasons for the great flower symbolism of delphiniums!
Delphiniums are part of the buttercup family Ranunculaceae and are native to the temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. There are over 300 species of delphinium flowers, with some giant delphinium varieties growing over 6 feet tall! Their history as an ornamental garden plant dates back to at least the 16th century. Today, delphiniums are frequently grown in homes and public gardens across North America, Europe, and Asia for their striking flowers.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Delphinium Flowers
Delphinium flowers convey different meanings depending on their color:
- Blue delphinium flowers symbolize levity, fun, lightness as well as ardent attachment. They’re often used to convey feelings of joy.
- White delphinium flowers represent purity innocence or candid expressions of love. They’re a popular choice for weddings.
- Pink delphinium flowers signify girlish charm or grace as well as passionate thoughts.
- Purple delphiniums are associated with nobility, dignity, grave thoughts, and feelings of perception.
In general, though,they symbolize big-heartedness, fun, warmth, and enthusiasm. They serve as a reminder that even in tough times, we should retain our positive spirits. Their tall stems also signify inner strength and moral support.
They can also make lovely flower arrangements with delphiniums or bouquets to brighten someone’s day.
Care and Cultivation of Delphinium Plants
Delphiniums grow best in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.5-7.5 in an area with full sun. They thrive on consistent water but dislike soggy soil. Some key tips for caring for Delphinium flower plants:
- Plant outdoors after the last frost date, spaced 12-18 inches apart
- Feed regularly with balanced organic fertilizer to encourage bushy growth
- Stake tall varieties to support and prevent wind damage
- Deadhead spent flowers to prolong the blooming season
- Cut back after the first frost to ground level for winter dormancy
- Mulch over the roots before the first hard frost for insulation
With proper care, Delphiniums will bloom abundantly from summer through fall. When homegrown, they can make wonderful additions to flower arrangements and bouquets. They’re also suitable for delivery online through floral sites during their growing season.
Blue & White Impressions
Sympathy Arrangement
Celebrate Life!
Benefits and Uses of Delphinium Flowers
Beyond their uplifting beauty, Delphiniums offer some benefits and uses:
- Medicinally, they can be used to treat things like intestinal worms, water retention, poor appetite, and insomnia. They have a calming effect on the body and mind. Farmers have also found them effective as a natural pesticide to keep bugs and other small pests away from crops.
- Culturally, delphiniums are often included in celebrations, parades, and large flower carpet designs because people like their vibrant colors. In gardens and landscaping, they make a nice addition to patios, orchards, and home gardens since they add visual interest and color. You can extract the blue pigment from the flowers using alum to make a natural blue ink for writing or art projects.
- Delphiniums are also a popular choice as a July birth month flower. People enjoy using them in bouquets, centerpieces, or other floral arrangements since they look elegant.
SnapBlooms makes it easy to buy and send flowers online.
Delphiniums are charming flowers with an interesting history. Beyond its symbolic meaning, the flower offers horticultural interest and a pop of summer color to brighten any garden or home. They’re a fun choice for floral gifts at any time of year. Consider adding delphiniums to your garden or sending some as a unique gift with online flower delivery services such as SnapBlooms. Order today!
