Nothing quite beats the drama of delphiniums. Delphiniums are in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). Delphinium are hugely popular for wedding, event and gift floristry. The opulent, towering spikes are wonderful for massed arrangements and garden designs.
They are probably best known for their vivid sapphire blue shades, but they also come in mauve, pink, white and even red. The flowers can be single or double, depending on the variety.
Types of Delphinium
There are different types of delphinium available on the flower markets. Varieties can vary in shape, types and colours. Here are types that are commonly used in floristry & flower arranging.
Caring for Delphinium
For purchasing, select spikes with open flowers on the lower quarter of the spike and well formed buds showing on the upper three quarters of the spike. Avoid spikes that are shattering blossoms, and any stems with mildew infested foliage. This could be a sign of ethylene damage.
In general, remove all foliage below the water line, cut under water with a sharp knife or scissors and hydrate with floral food for a couple of hours or overnight before storage or usage. Refer to the video for more information on how to condition the delphiniums.