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Low Larkspur - delphinium nutalliarnum

© 2011 Patty Hankins

One of the beautiful wildflowers I photographed at Grand Teton National Park last summer was Low Larkspur. It is related to the dwarf larkspur I’ve photographed along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. It was a great splash of color among the greens and browns of the grasses in the field where I spotted it. And I love being able to see both a beautiful little wildflower and the grand mountains in the view.

Low Larkspur - delphinium nutalliarnum

© 2011 Patty Hankins

Low Larkspur (delphinium nutallianum) is a member of Ranunculaceae (buttercup) family. It is native to much of the western United States and Canada.

© 2011 Patty Hankins

Depending on where you find it will likely determine how tall it is. At Grand Teton National Park, the Low Larkspur was less than 12″ tall. It can grow to as tall as 30″ tall in the southern part of its range. It is known for having only one stem, with blue-violet flowers.

Low Larkspur - delphinium nutalliarnum

© 2011 Patty Hankins

Like many other members of the delphinium family, low larkspur is highly toxic to humans and animals, especially cattle. All parts of the plant contain alkaloids than can be fatal for humans – and often are fatal for cattle. AVOID EATING ANY PARTS OF THE LARKSPUR PLANTS.

Low Larkspur - delphinium nutalliarnum

© 2011 Patty Hankins

Despite the toxic nature of the plants, they have been used by Native American tribes as a stain for arrows and in ceremonies.

More information about Low Larkspur can be found at

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Native American Ethnobotany

The Wildlife News – Larkspur Strikes Again

USDA Plant Profiles

USDA Plants Poisonous to Livestock in the Western States