Throughout the ages, larkspur has been used for everything from dyes to preventing witches from casting spells on animals. (Courtesy

Larkspur (Consolida Ambigua) is an annual plant closely related to the perennial delphinium for which it is often mistaken. They are both native to the Mediterranean and members of the butter cup family.

In Shakespeare’s time it was called larks heel, larks claw and knights of spur. These names were descriptive of the backward projecting spur of the upper petal. The long spikes of the flower grow from 18 to 48 inches tall and come in single or double blooms in shades of purple, blue, pink and white. They bloom in the spring in our area. Larkspur prefers full sun for the brightest color, but will tolerate partial shade.

Larkspur reseeds itself and should be planted in well-drained soil, 10 to 12 inches apart in the fall. Dead head regularly for repeated blooms. These Texas Superstars are hardy and easy to grow. Because they tend to become congested, check for thinning. However, to provide adequate support for the tall stalks, sow seeds densely. Plant in beds along fence lines or back borders of cottage gardens and mix with perennials such as cosmos, snapdragons and Marguerite daisies. They are also used in window boxes and make great cut flowers as well as dried flowers. Their light, airy foliate has a soft fern-like appearance, which helps them blend with other plants.

Caution: the seeds and leaves of the larkspur are mildly toxic to pets and people, and dangerous to cattle.

Larkspurs were given as flower gifts in Victorian times, symbolizing an open heart and romantic feelings. Flowers’ colors were said to represent feelings. Pink was fickleness; white was happy-go-lucky; and purple was first love and sweet disposition.

Their most ancient use reportedly was to drive away scorpions. In England they were used to cure ailments and in celebrations during the summer solstice. In Transylvania the dried flowers were placed in stalls to prevent witches from casting spells on animals. Native Americans and European settlers made a blue dye from the flower petals.

Larkspur claims July as its birthday month. It is thought to symbolize carefree summer days and lighthearted feelings.