Twospike Larkspur: A Northwestern Native Worth Growing
If you’re looking to add some serious vertical drama to your native plant garden, let me introduce you to twospike larkspur (Delphinium distichum). This stunning perennial wildflower brings classic delphinium elegance with the added bonus of being perfectly adapted to Northwestern climates. While it might not be as well-known as its garden center cousins, this native beauty has some serious advantages that make it worth seeking out.
What Is Twospike Larkspur?
Twospike larkspur is a native North American perennial that belongs to the buttercup family. As a forb—basically a fancy term for a non-woody flowering plant—it dies back to the ground each winter and returns with vigorous growth each spring. The twospike part of its name refers to its distinctive flower arrangement, though you’ll often see more than just two flower spikes on a mature plant.
Where Does It Grow Naturally?
This larkspur is a true child of the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies. You’ll find it growing wild across British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. It’s perfectly adapted to the cool, moist conditions of these regions, making it an excellent choice for gardeners in similar climates.
Why Choose Twospike Larkspur for Your Garden?
There are several compelling reasons to consider adding this native to your landscape:
- Pollinator magnet: The tubular, spurred flowers are particularly attractive to bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds
- Native plant benefits: Supporting local ecosystems while requiring less water and care than non-native alternatives
- Vertical interest: Tall flower spikes create excellent structure in perennial borders and wildflower gardens
- Beautiful blooms: Striking blue to purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer
- Cold hardy: Thrives in USDA zones 3-7, handling harsh winters with ease
Garden Design Ideas
Twospike larkspur works beautifully in several garden styles:
- Native plant gardens: Combine with other Northwestern natives for an authentic regional look
- Wildflower meadows: Let it naturalize alongside native grasses and other wildflowers
- Cottage gardens: Its informal growth habit and classic flower shape fit perfectly with the cottage garden aesthetic
- Perennial borders: Use as a tall backdrop plant or mid-border accent
Growing Conditions and Care
The good news is that twospike larkspur isn’t particularly fussy once you understand its preferences:
Sunlight and Soil
This native prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It’s adapted to a range of soil types but performs best in moderately fertile, slightly alkaline conditions. Good drainage is crucial—soggy soil is a quick way to lose your plants.
Watering Needs
Once established, twospike larkspur is relatively drought-tolerant, though it appreciates consistent moisture during its growing season. Deep, infrequent watering is better than frequent shallow watering.
Planting Tips
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation
- Consider staking taller specimens in windy locations
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Seasonal Care
Twospike larkspur follows a fairly predictable seasonal rhythm. After the main flush of blooms fades, you can cut the flower stalks back to encourage a second, smaller bloom period. In fall, allow the foliage to die back naturally—this helps the plant store energy for next year’s growth. A light layer of mulch can provide extra winter protection in the coldest zones.
Potential Challenges
Like all delphiniums, twospike larkspur contains alkaloids that make it toxic to humans and animals if ingested. Keep this in mind if you have curious pets or small children. The plants can also be attractive to slugs and snails, so keep an eye out for these pests, especially in damp conditions.
Finding and Propagating Twospike Larkspur
This native isn’t always easy to find at mainstream garden centers, but native plant nurseries and specialty wildflower suppliers often carry it. You can also try growing it from seed—just remember that delphinium seeds often need a cold stratification period to germinate properly.
The Bottom Line
Twospike larkspur offers native plant gardeners the best of both worlds: the classic beauty of a delphinium with the ecological benefits and regional adaptation of a true native. While it may require a bit more effort to source than common garden varieties, its contribution to local pollinator populations and its stunning seasonal display make it well worth the search. If you’re gardening in its native range and looking to add some vertical drama to your landscape, this Northwestern native deserves a spot in your garden.
