Delphinium x belladonna Clivedon Beauty | Candle larkspur

Delphinium × belladonna ‘Clivedon Beauty’ | Candle Larkspur

Hardiest delphinium · First-year flowering perennial

Delphinium × belladonna ‘Clivedon Beauty’ produces elegant, airy sky-blue flowers on long, slender, well-branched stems. This classic variety is highly valued for cut flower production, bouquets, and natural garden designs.

One of the hardiest delphiniums, it flowers in the first year from seed. Tall stems may require support, especially in windy or rainy conditions. Attractive to bees and butterflies. Often grown as an annual, but perennial in suitable climates.

Perennial in Zones 3–7 (short-lived, approx. 3 seasons).

Plant Information

• Latin name: Delphinium × belladonna
• Common name: Candle larkspur
• Life cycle: Perennial (often grown as annual)
• Hybrid status: Open pollinated
• Days to maturity: 130–135 days
• Light: Sun / partial shade
• Plant height: Varies; support recommended
• Plant spacing:
  • Perennial: 30–45 cm
  • Annual: 30 cm

Germination

• Germination time: 10–20 days
• Temperature: 18–21 °C

Sowing Instructions (Transplanting Recommended)

• Sow indoors 10–16 weeks before planting out
• Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost
• Cover lightly with vermiculite
• Transplant seedlings after 6–8 weeks into larger cells or 8–10 cm pots
• Grow on at 10–13 °C
• Harden off and plant outdoors after the last frost
• Direct sowing is not recommended

Optional cold stratification:
After sowing, place trays in a plastic bag and refrigerate at 4 °C for 3 weeks, then move to 15–18 °C for germination. Germination may take 4–8 weeks.

Growing Conditions

• Fertile, well-drained, slightly alkaline soil
• Shelter from strong winds
• Stake or support plants well
• Water at soil level; avoid overhead watering
• Feed lightly but regularly with a balanced fertiliser

Harvest

• Harvest when ¼–⅓ of flowers on the stem are open
• Place immediately in water
• Cut back after flowering to encourage repeat blooms

Uses

• Excellent cut flower
• Perennial borders and cottage gardens
• Pollinator-friendly