Swamp larkspur facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Swamp larkspur
Scientific classification
Genus:	Delphinium
Species:	uliginosum

The swamp larkspur (scientific name: Delphinium uliginosum) is a special type of larkspur plant. It is also known as the bog larkspur. This plant is found only in California, which means it is endemic to that state. You can find it in very specific areas within the Inner North Coast Ranges.

Where Does Swamp Larkspur Grow?

This unique plant likes to grow in certain kinds of places. It lives in areas called chaparral, which are like shrublands. It also grows in grasslands and other hilly habitats. The swamp larkspur especially likes to grow in serpentine soils. These soils are a special type of rock that is not common everywhere.

What Does Swamp Larkspur Look Like?

The swamp larkspur is a perennial herb. This means it is a plant that lives for more than two years. It grows a smooth, straight stem that can reach up to 70 centimeters (about 27 inches) tall.

One of the easiest ways to tell this plant apart is by its leaves. Most larkspurs have leaves that look like fingers spreading out. But the swamp larkspur has leaves that are shaped like a fan. This makes it very special among other larkspur plants.

Its Flowers and Fruit

The plant produces a cluster of flowers called an inflorescence. This cluster can have up to 45 flowers! Each flower grows on its own upright stalk, called a pedicel. These stalks can be longer than 10 centimeters (about 4 inches).

The flowers are a pretty blue color. The longest parts of the flower, called sepals, are about 1.4 centimeters long. The flower also has a spur, which is a small, hollow part that sticks out. This spur is about the same length as the sepals. After the flower blooms, it forms a fruit that is usually one or two centimeters long.