Hansen's Larkspur
Delphinium hansenii
Care
full sun, part shade
2–6ft tall
Friendly
Prized
Sierra Nevada alpine and subalpine regions of Inyo and Mono counties, 11000-13000 ft elevation in alpine meadows.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Hansen's Larkspur in full sun, where it will thrive in Bay Area gardens. This California native grows naturally from the Cascades to the Mojave, so it's adapted to our region's conditions. Space plants according to their mature height of 2 to 6 feet, giving them room to reach their full size.
After Planting
Water regularly during the first growing season to help your larkspur establish itself. Once established, this native wildflower is adapted to survive on natural rainfall in our climate, so you can significantly reduce supplemental watering. Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage continued blooming and maintain the plant's appearance throughout the season.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Listed as endangered; endemic to California
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Larval host plant for specialist Delphinid-feeding insects in Ranunculaceae community
Early season nectar source for queen establishment and worker provisioning
Spring emergence nectar source
Pollen collection for brood development
Adult nectar feeding
Early season nectar and pollen resource for colony buildup
Birds
Seed dispersal and consumption in fall
Mammals
Spring and early summer forage
Spring forage when new growth emerges