New Zealand Pagan Purples Delphinium

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-5 Feet

Mature Spread

1.5-2 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 7

New Zealand Pagan Purples Delphinium is grown for depth of color and commanding height. This Delphinium elatum sends up saturated bluish-purple spires that can reach 4–6 feet tall, each bloom marked with a contrasting white or mocha-toned bee. Roughly ten percent of the flowers may appear pale mauve or white, often double, which adds subtle variation within the stand. This selection comes from New Zealand breeding lines known for strong stems and improved heat tolerance compared to older English types. 

Thick, coarsely cut foliage forms a substantial base that holds its own even before buds open. Flower spikes arrive in early summer and can return on secondary stems if the first round is removed promptly. Pollinators, especially bees and hummingbirds, work the blooms steadily, while deer and rabbits usually leave the plant alone. It excels at the back of perennial borders, in cutting gardens, or as a specimen rising above midsize companions. Stems are long and straight, making them dependable for dramatic indoor arrangements.

New Zealand Pagan Purples Delphinium Care

Provide full sun for best stem strength, with light afternoon shade in warmer zone 7 gardens. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH; enrich lean ground with compost before setting plants in place. Water deeply and consistently during active growth, particularly as flower spikes elongate, but avoid chronically wet conditions around the crown. Feed in early spring with a balanced granular fertilizer, then apply a second light feeding after the first bloom cycle to support rebloom.

Stake stems early in exposed sites to prevent wind damage. After flowering, cut spent spikes down to strong side shoots to encourage another flush. In late fall, reduce stems to a few inches above soil level and mulch lightly to moderate winter freeze-thaw cycles.

New Zealand Pagan Purples Delphinium Spacing

Allow 18–24 inches between plants so air circulates freely around the foliage. In landscape designs, position it behind Russian sage for a layered, cool-toned pairing, or combine with coneflower and yarrow for a balanced midsummer display. For large patio containers, use a deep, heavy pot and underplant with sweet potato vines to soften the base while the spires rise above.

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