Delphinium
Larkspur
Knight's Spur
Scientific Name:
Delphinium elatum
Family:
Ranunculaceae
Description
Delphinium is a perennial herb in the Ranunculaceae family native to Europe. Double-flowered improved varieties were developed in the 17th century from wild species. Named for buds resembling dolphins. In summer, it produces tall flower stems 1-2 meters high with spikes of blue, purple, white, and pink flowers. Blue varieties are particularly beautiful and indispensable in English gardens.
Trivia
- Named 'Delphinium' (delphin=dolphin) for buds resembling dolphins
- Considered essential in British cottage gardens
- Blue flower color rare in other plants, important color element in garden design
- Giant varieties exceeding 3 meters in height exist
Uses
Ornamental
- Garden background plantings
- Cut flowers
- English gardens
Medicinal
- Used medicinally in ancient Greece but not recommended due to toxicity
Caution:
Medicinal use should be absolutely avoided due to toxicity
Other
- Historically used as blue dye
- Historical use as insecticide
Toxicity
Toxicity Level:
Severe
Toxic Parts:
Entire plant, Especially seeds and young leaves
Symptoms:
Alkaloids cause vomiting, diarrhea, muscle paralysis, breathing difficulties, and can be fatal in severe cases
Cornflower
Bachelor's Button
Bluebottle
Scientific Name:
Centaurea cyanus
Family:
Asteraceae
Flower Language
-
Delicacy
-
Delicate
-
Grace
-
Education
Description
Cornflower is an annual herb in the Asteraceae family native to Europe, known for its long relationship with humanity. Found in Tutankhamun's coffin, it appears to have been growing 3,300 years ago. Blooming from April to June, it's famous for particularly beautiful blue flowers, though pink, white, and purple varieties also exist. Named 'yaguruma-giku' in Japan for its characteristic wheel-like flower shape.
Trivia
- One of the oldest cultivated flowers found in Tutankhamun's coffin
- Used to mourn war dead during World War I
- Beloved as the special blue called 'Kaiser Blue' in Germany
- Used to test lovers' loyalty in medieval Europe
Uses
Ornamental
- Flower bed displays
- Cut flowers
- Wildflower gardens
Medicinal
- Used for eye strain and inflammation in European folk medicine but not common today
Caution:
Medicinal use requires specialist knowledge
Other
- Used as blue dye
- Dried flowers
- Nectar source for butterflies and bees
Toxicity
Symptoms:
No particular toxicity reported
Petunia
Garden Petunia
Common Petunia
Scientific Name:
Petunia × hybrida
Family:
Solanaceae
Flower Language
-
My Heart Softens When With You
-
Peace of Mind
Description
Petunia is an annual herb in the Solanaceae family native to South America, known in Japanese as Tsukubane-asagao. Since being brought to Europe in the 19th century, extensive breeding has created thousands of horticultural varieties. Blooming continuously from May to October, flower colors are extremely diverse including red, pink, white, purple, and yellow. Producing trumpet-shaped flowers in succession, it's beloved worldwide as an indispensable plant for summer flower beds.
Trivia
- Name derives from 'petun' (tobacco) in native South American languages
- Became explosively popular in 19th century Europe, leading to extensive breeding
- Now includes diverse varieties: single, double, frilled, giant-flowered
- Night-fragrant varieties release strong scent from evening to morning
Uses
Ornamental
- Flower bed displays
- Hanging baskets
- Container gardens
Medicinal
- Used in South American folk medicine but not common today
Caution:
Medicinal use not recommended
Culinary
Not suitable for culinary use
Other
- Nectar source for butterflies and bees
- Fragrant night varieties can be used for perfume
Toxicity
Toxicity Level:
Mild
Toxic Parts:
Entire plant
Symptoms:
Contains alkaloids typical of Solanaceae, may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large amounts, but normal ornamental use poses no problem