Florist's Guide to Delphinium Varieties and Techniques
Delphiniums, with their tall, elegant spires of flowers, are a beloved choice for florists. Known for their striking vertical lines and a wide range of colors, these flowers add height, texture, and charm to arrangements. This flower delivery guide explores delphinium varieties and offers practical techniques for using them in floral design.
1. Understanding Delphinium Varieties
Delphiniums come in a variety of species and hybrids, each with unique characteristics:
By Species
Delphinium elatum (Hybrid Delphiniums)
Features: Tall spikes with large, densely packed flowers.
Colors: Blues, purples, whites, pinks.
Use: Perfect for dramatic centerpieces or vertical accents.
Delphinium grandiflorum (Chinese Delphiniums)
Features: Shorter stems, smaller blooms, and a more delicate appearance.
Colors: Sky blue, pale pink, white.
Use: Ideal for soft, romantic arrangements or as filler flowers.
Delphinium consolida (Larkspur)
Features: Airy and lightweight, with looser flower spikes.
Colors: Purple, lavender, pink, white.
Use: Popular in rustic and wildflower-inspired designs.
By Height
Dwarf Varieties: 12–24 inches, suitable for compact arrangements.
Intermediate Varieties: 2–4 feet, versatile for most designs.
Tall Varieties: Over 4 feet, dramatic and perfect for large installations.
2. Harvesting Delphiniums
Proper harvesting techniques ensure their longevity and quality:
Timing: Harvest delphiniums when about 50–75% of the flowers on a spike are open.
Tools: Use clean, sharp floral shears to avoid crushing stems.
Immediate Care: Place stems in water immediately to prevent wilting.
3. Conditioning Delphiniums
Delphiniums are sensitive flowers that require careful handling:
Remove Foliage: Strip leaves from the lower third of the stem to reduce bacteria in the water.
Hydrate Properly:
Use lukewarm water with floral preservative.
Allow stems to rest in water for at least 2–3 hours before arranging.
Re-cut Stems: Trim stems at a 45-degree angle underwater to maintain hydration.
Support Tall Stems: Place in a tall bucket or container to keep stems upright.
4. Designing with Delphiniums
Delphiniums add elegance and vertical balance to floral arrangements. Here are some tips for design:
Centerpieces: Use tall delphiniums as a focal point, surrounded by medium-height flowers like roses or hydrangeas.
Bouquets: Pair delphiniums with airy filler flowers like Queen Anne’s lace or baby's breath for a romantic look.
Large Installations: Incorporate delphiniums in arches, backdrops, or cascading arrangements for dramatic effect.
Color Pairing Ideas:
Pair blue delphiniums with yellows (e.g., sunflowers) for a bold contrast.
Use white delphiniums with pastel blooms for a soft, ethereal vibe.
Combine pink and purple varieties for a rich, jewel-toned palette.
5. Wiring and Supporting Delphiniums
Tall and delicate, delphiniums often require reinforcement:
Wiring: Insert a thin floral wire (24-gauge) along the stem for added stability.
Support Structures: Use floral tape or support sticks for heavy flower spikes.
Anchoring: Secure stems in floral foam for large arrangements.
6. Extending Vase Life
Keep delphiniums fresh with proper care:
Water Maintenance: Change water daily and clean the vase to prevent bacteria buildup.
Stem Care: Re-cut stems every 2–3 days.
Environment: Display arrangements in a cool, shaded location away from direct sunlight or drafts.
Tip: Delphiniums are prone to ethylene sensitivity, so keep them away from ripening fruits.
7. Creative Uses for Delphiniums
Wedding Florals: Blue delphiniums are a favorite for "something blue" in bridal bouquets.
Dried Arrangements: Air-dry delphiniums for use in wreaths and everlasting bouquets.
Wildflower Looks: Combine delphinium larkspur with daisies and grasses for a rustic aesthetic.
8. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Wilting Stems: Ensure fresh cuts are made and stems are hydrated promptly.
Drooping Spikes: Wire or stake the stems for support.
Browning Flowers: Remove faded blooms to encourage the spike to remain fresh.
9. Seasonal Availability
Peak Season: Summer (June–August).
Off-Season: Source greenhouse-grown delphiniums for year-round availability.
Color Trends by Season:
Spring: Soft blues and whites for fresh, light arrangements.
Summer: Vibrant purples and pinks for bold displays.
Fall/Winter: Deep indigos paired with warm-toned foliage for seasonal elegance.
Delphiniums bring a touch of sophistication and drama to any arrangement. By mastering these techniques and understanding the unique qualities of different varieties, florists can create stunning, long-lasting designs with these timeless blooms. Happy arranging!
