Delphiniums are tall, elegant perennials known for their striking flower spikes and vibrant blue, purple, pink, and white blooms. They add height and drama to garden beds and are especially valued for their bold vertical presence in early to mid-summer gardens.
Delphiniums grow best in cooler climates with full sun, rich soil, and good drainage. From compact, container-friendly types to towering statement plants, these are the most popular delphinium varieties to grow in your backyard.
1. Pacific Giant Blue Delphinium
Pacific Giant Blue delphinium is a classic variety known for its tall flower spikes covered in deep blue blooms. It typically blooms in early to mid-summer and adds strong vertical interest to garden beds. This variety can reach impressive heights and works well as a background or focal plant.
Pacific Giant Blue prefers full sun, rich soil, and good drainage. Staking is often recommended to support the tall flower spikes, especially in windy areas.
2. Pacific Giant Mix Delphinium
Pacific Giant Mix offers a blend of bold colors including blue, purple, lavender, pink, and white. The tall flower spikes create a dramatic display and are perfect for gardeners who want variety without choosing individual colors.
This variety grows best in full sun with fertile, well-draining soil. Regular watering and staking help keep plants healthy and upright throughout the blooming season.
3. Blue Bird Delphinium
Blue Bird delphinium produces bright sky-blue flowers with a white center, creating a fresh and eye-catching look. The blooms appear on tall, sturdy spikes and stand out beautifully in cottage-style gardens.
This variety prefers full sun and cooler temperatures. Blue Bird benefits from rich soil and consistent moisture and works well in mixed borders and cut flower gardens.
4. Black Knight Delphinium
Black Knight delphinium features deep purple-blue blooms with a dark center, giving the flowers a rich, dramatic appearance. It blooms in early summer and adds depth and contrast to garden beds.
This variety grows best in full sun and well-draining soil. Due to its height, staking is recommended. Black Knight is ideal for gardeners looking for bold color and a strong visual impact.
5. King Arthur Delphinium
King Arthur delphinium is known for its vibrant royal blue flowers with dark centers. The tall flower spikes create a striking display and pair well with lighter-colored perennials.
This variety thrives in full sun and fertile, well-draining soil. Regular watering and staking help support its growth. King Arthur is a popular choice for classic cottage gardens.
6. Galahad Delphinium
Galahad delphinium produces tall spikes of pure white flowers that bring brightness and balance to garden spaces. The clean color makes it easy to pair with bold or pastel plants.
This variety prefers full sun and rich soil with good drainage. Staking is recommended to protect the tall flower spikes. Galahad works well as a contrast plant and adds elegance to mixed borders.
7. Magic Fountains Blue Delphinium
Magic Fountains Blue delphinium is a more compact variety with rich blue flowers and a white center. It offers the classic delphinium look but on shorter, sturdier plants, making it easier to manage in smaller gardens.
This variety prefers full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. It usually does not require staking and is a great option for gardeners who want delphiniums without the extra maintenance.
8. Magic Fountains White Delphinium
Magic Fountains White delphinium produces clean white flower spikes that brighten garden beds and borders. Its compact growth habit makes it well-suited for mixed plantings and container gardens.
This variety grows best in full sun and cooler temperatures. Regular watering and good drainage help support healthy blooms throughout the season.
9. Magic Fountains Mix Delphinium
Magic Fountains Mix includes a blend of blue, purple, lavender, and white blooms. The plants stay shorter than traditional delphiniums while still delivering impressive flower spikes.
This variety is ideal for gardeners with limited space or those looking for an easier-care option. It performs well in full sun with rich soil and minimal staking.
10. Guardian Blue Delphinium
Guardian Blue delphinium produces tall, uniform spikes of deep blue flowers with a white center. It blooms earlier than many other varieties and provides strong, reliable color in the garden.
This variety thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Its sturdy stems make it more wind-resistant than taller types, though light staking may still be helpful in exposed areas.
11. Guardian White Delphinium
Guardian White delphinium features elegant white blooms arranged on tall, upright spikes. The clean color works well in formal gardens and pairs beautifully with bold or pastel plants.
This variety prefers full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. It blooms early in the season and maintains a neat, upright growth habit.
12. Aurora Blue Delphinium
Aurora Blue delphinium is a compact variety with vibrant blue blooms and a white center. It flowers earlier than many traditional delphiniums and produces multiple flower spikes per plant.
This variety is well-suited for borders and containers. It prefers full sun, consistent moisture, and good drainage for best performance.
13. Aurora Lavender Delphinium
Aurora Lavender delphinium offers soft lavender-purple blooms that bring a gentle, calming tone to garden beds. The flowers grow on compact, sturdy plants that are easy to maintain.
This variety grows best in full sun and cooler climates. It is a good choice for gardeners looking for softer color and manageable plant size.
14. Summer Skies Delphinium
Summer Skies delphinium produces light blue flowers with a pale center, creating a soft, airy look in the garden. The tall spikes add height without overwhelming nearby plants.
This variety prefers full sun and rich soil with good drainage. Staking may be needed as the flower spikes mature, especially in windy locations.
15. Cobalt Dreams Delphinium
Cobalt Dreams delphinium features deep cobalt-blue blooms that add bold color and drama to the landscape. The flowers are densely packed along tall spikes, making this variety a strong focal plant.
This variety grows best in full sun and fertile soil. Regular watering and staking help support its tall growth and keep flower spikes upright throughout the season.
