Menzies’ Larkspur: A Pacific Northwest Native Worth Growing
If you’re looking to add some true Pacific Northwest charm to your garden, Menzies’ larkspur (Delphinium menziesii menziesii) might just be the perfect choice. This stunning native perennial brings both beauty and ecological value to the right garden setting, though it’s definitely not a plant for every gardener or every location.
What Is Menzies’ Larkspur?
Menzies’ larkspur is a herbaceous perennial forb – basically a fancy way of saying it’s a non-woody plant that comes back year after year. As a member of the buttercup family, it produces the characteristic spurred flowers that make delphiniums so beloved by gardeners. The plant was named after Archibald Menzies, a Scottish naturalist who explored the Pacific Northwest in the late 1700s.
You might also encounter this plant listed under its botanical synonyms: Delphinium menziesii DC. var. pyramidale or Delphinium menziesii DC. ssp. pyramidale Ewan, but they’re all referring to the same lovely native species.
Where Does It Come From?
This is a true child of the Pacific Northwest, native to British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. It’s perfectly at home in both Canada and the lower 48 states within this range, having evolved to thrive in the unique climate conditions of this region.
Why You Might Want to Grow It
There are several compelling reasons to consider adding Menzies’ larkspur to your garden:
- Stunning flowers: The blue to purple spurred flowers arranged on tall spikes create dramatic vertical interest
- Native plant benefits: Supporting local ecosystems by growing plants that naturally belong in your area
- Pollinator magnet: Hummingbirds and long-tongued bees absolutely love the nectar-rich flowers
- Woodland charm: Perfect for creating that naturalistic, Pacific Northwest forest feel
- Low maintenance: Once established in the right conditions, it largely takes care of itself
Why You Might Want to Skip It
However, this isn’t a plant for every garden or gardener:
- Limited range: If you’re not in the Pacific Northwest, this plant won’t be truly native to your area
- Specific growing needs: Requires cool, moist conditions that can be challenging to provide outside its natural range
- Dormancy issues: May go dormant during hot summers, leaving gaps in your garden display
- Not for hot climates: Struggles in areas with intense summer heat
Perfect Garden Settings
Menzies’ larkspur shines in specific garden types:
- Native plant gardens focusing on Pacific Northwest species
- Woodland or forest gardens with dappled shade
- Naturalistic landscapes that mimic local ecosystems
- Back-of-border plantings where its height can be showcased
- Gardens designed specifically to attract hummingbirds and native bees
Growing Conditions and Care
Success with Menzies’ larkspur depends on recreating its natural habitat:
Light: Partial shade works best – think dappled sunlight filtering through trees rather than full blazing sun.
Soil: Well-drained but consistently moist soil is key. It doesn’t like to dry out completely, but soggy conditions will kill it.
Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, but performs best in areas with cool, moist summers typical of its native range.
Water: Consistent moisture throughout the growing season, but don’t let it sit in waterlogged soil.
Planting and Care Tips
Getting started with Menzies’ larkspur requires some planning:
- Timing: Plant in fall or early spring when temperatures are cool
- Location: Choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade
- Soil prep: Improve drainage while maintaining moisture-holding capacity with compost
- Watering: Deep, infrequent watering is better than frequent shallow watering
- Summer care: Don’t panic if it goes dormant during hot spells – this is natural
- Mulching: A layer of organic mulch helps maintain consistent soil moisture
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
One of the best reasons to grow Menzies’ larkspur is its value to local wildlife. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to the tubular, spurred flowers, making this plant an excellent choice for anyone wanting to create a hummingbird garden. Long-tongued native bees also visit the flowers, helping to support healthy pollinator populations in your area.
The Bottom Line
Menzies’ larkspur is a fantastic choice for Pacific Northwest gardeners who want to embrace their region’s native flora. It’s not the easiest plant to grow, and it definitely won’t work everywhere, but in the right location with the right care, it provides stunning beauty and valuable ecological benefits. If you’re outside the Pacific Northwest, you might want to look for native larkspur species that are better adapted to your local conditions instead.
Remember, the best native gardens work with nature rather than against it – and Menzies’ larkspur is a perfect example of a plant that rewards gardeners who understand and provide for its specific needs.
