Poison delphinium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Poison delphinium |
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Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Delphinium |
| Species: |
D. trolliifolium
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| Binomial name | |
| Delphinium trolliifolium |
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Delphinium trolliifolium is a type of larkspur plant. It has a few common names like poison delphinium, cow poison, and Columbian larkspur. This plant grows naturally in parts of Washington, Oregon, and northern California.
This wildflower can grow to be about one half to just over one meter tall. That's like half the height of a grown-up! It has big, shiny leaves that are deeply cut, almost like fingers.
About the Poison Larkspur
The top part of the plant's stem has many flowers. These flowers are spread out on long stalks called pedicels. Some of these stalks can be over nine centimeters long.
What its Flowers Look Like
The flowers of the poison larkspur are usually a bright, deep blue color. Sometimes, the two top petals of the flower can be milky white. Each flower also has a long "spur" that sticks out. This spur can be more than two centimeters long on the biggest flowers.
Why it's Called "Poison"
As its name suggests, Delphinium trolliifolium is a plant that can be harmful if eaten. It is especially known to be toxic to farm animals like cows. Many other types of larkspur plants also have some level of natural toxins. It's always best to admire wild plants from a distance and never eat them unless you are absolutely sure they are safe.
