Scarlet larkspur facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Scarlet larkspur |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Delphinium
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| Species: |
cardinale
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Delphinium cardinale is a beautiful wild flower often called scarlet larkspur or cardinal larkspur. It grows naturally in California and Baja California, which are parts of North America. You can find it on sunny, rocky slopes in areas called chaparral, like deserts and mountain ranges. This plant has special chemicals that can be harmful if eaten, so it's best to admire it without touching or tasting.
What Does Scarlet Larkspur Look Like?
This tall plant stands straight up, often growing more than two meters (about 6 feet) high! Its leaves are divided into many thin, narrow parts. At the top of its thin stem, you'll see many flowers spread out. Each flower sits on a small stem called a pedicel, which can be several centimeters long.
The flowers are a bright scarlet red. Their outer leaf-like parts, called sepals, usually curl forward, making the flower look like a small bowl. The inner parts, called petals, are also scarlet. However, the top two petals have bright yellow spots, making them stand out. Each flower can be about 3 centimeters wide and just as long, including its special spur.
Where Does Scarlet Larkspur Grow?
You can usually find scarlet larkspur growing on rocky slopes made of chert or shale. It likes to grow at the edge of chaparral areas or in open spots within the chaparral. Chaparral is a type of shrubland with dense bushes.
How Does Scarlet Larkspur Get Pollinated?
The bright red color and shape of the scarlet larkspur flowers are perfect for attracting hummingbirds! Hummingbirds love to drink nectar from these flowers, and as they do, they help the plant spread its pollen. This process is called pollination, and it helps the plant make seeds for new flowers.
