Canyon larkspur facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Canyon larkspur |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Delphinium
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| Species: |
nudicaule
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Delphinium nudicaule, also known as canyon larkspur or red larkspur, is a beautiful wild flower. It is a perennial herb, which means it's a plant that lives for many years. It belongs to the buttercup family, called Ranunculaceae.
This plant grows naturally in low-lying canyons, hills, and mountains. You can find it in California, from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the California Coast Ranges, and also in Oregon. It usually grows in areas below about 6,500 feet (2,000 meters).
The canyon larkspur has thin, long stems that can grow up to 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters) tall. Its leaves are finely cut, giving them a delicate look. The plant produces eye-catching larkspur flowers that are bright red or orange. These colorful flowers are often pollinated by hummingbirds, which are attracted to their vibrant colors.
How People Used This Plant
For a long time, the root of the Delphinium nudicaule plant was used as traditional medicine. Native American tribes, like the Mendocino Native Americans of the Yuki tribe, used it.
The Concow tribe had their own names for this plant. In the Konkow language, they called the plant sō-ma’, and the root was known as sō-ma’ yem.
Important Safety Note
Scientists have studied Delphinium nudicaule and found that it contains special natural chemicals called alkaloids. These chemicals are very strong.
Because of these chemicals, the plant is not safe to eat and can be poisonous if consumed. It's important to remember that many wild plants contain substances that can be harmful, so you should never eat any part of a wild plant unless an expert tells you it's safe.
