Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Purple’

Description

Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Purple’ is a compact perennial growing 60–80 cm tall, producing elegant spires of double dark purple flowers with white bees. Blooming from May to June, this hardy variety thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soil and full sun. Its strong, stable stems make it ideal for garden borders, pollinator-friendly gardens, and cottage-style planting schemes.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The optimal time to plant Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Purple’ is in spring, allowing the roots to establish before flowering.
• Autumn: Early autumn planting is also suitable, giving the plant time to settle before dormancy and promoting vigorous growth in the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delphinium thrives in full sun, which supports strong stems and abundant flower spikes.
• Soil: The plant prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Incorporating compost or organic matter improves soil structure and encourages healthy growth.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Place your Delphinium in the hole, keeping the crown level with the soil surface. Firm gently to remove air pockets.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and help roots establish.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Delphinium benefits from consistent watering for strong flower spikes.
• Dormant Season: Water sparingly once growth has died back, only if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to support vigorous new growth and healthy flower development.
• Mid-Summer: Feed again to encourage prolonged flowering and maintain the vigour of Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Purple’.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes to encourage secondary blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Cutback: After flowering, cut stems back to ground level to prepare your Delphinium for winter dormancy.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil.
• Winter: Mulching also protects roots from frost and supports strong regrowth the following season.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: While Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Purple’ has sturdy stems, staking may help support tall flower spikes and prevent wind damage. Place supports early for best results.

Final Tips

Delphinium x cultorum ‘Jupiter F1 Purple’ is a hardy, compact perennial that brings bold colour and vertical structure to garden borders. With proper planting, consistent watering, feeding, and occasional staking, this plant will reward gardeners with stunning dark purple blooms in late spring and early summer. Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees and pollinators, making it both a beautiful and eco-friendly addition to any garden.

 

RHS Details

See more Delphinium from Proctors