Larkspur 'Pink Queen'

Pink Queen Larkspur (Consolida ajacis)

Pink Queen is a regal addition to any cutting garden, featuring tall, elegant spires densely packed with soft pink florets tinged with hints of pale green. The blooms are mostly double, with a scattering of singles that add charm and texture. Each flower spike reaches 9–12" long, with individual florets measuring 1½–1¾" across—making it a premium variety for bouquets and floral design.

Very similar in appearance and quality to the classic Sublime series (now largely replaced by QIS™), Pink Queen offers exceptional uniformity and colour. Plants grow up to 4 ft tall and attract hummingbirds, adding both beauty and life to the garden. Cold tolerant and easy to grow in full sun with well-drained soil.

DETAILS:

QTY: 75

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1/4"

GERMINATION: 14 - 28 Days at 13°C

HEIGHT:  Up to 48”

MATURITY: 80 - 100 days

SPACING: 6 - 9”

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:

Direct Sowing (recommended): Larkspur is best grown from seed sown directly into the garden in late fall or very early spring, as it requires a period of cold for successful germination. Seeds can be scattered outdoors and lightly covered either before winter sets in or as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. Larkspur is cold-tolerant, making fall sowing ideal even in cold regions. To improve germination when sowing in the spring, pre-chill seeds in the refrigerator or freezer for 1–2 weeks before planting.

Transplanting (alternative): While not ideal, larkspur can also be started indoors in trays 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Use deep cell trays or pots to reduce root disturbance. Transplant seedlings out while temperatures are still cool.

Pinching and Support: Pinching is not necessary for larkspur. Taller varieties will require a support structure, such as a trellis or netting, to prevent their heavy flower stalks from toppling over.

Soil Preference and Watering: Larkspur prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. It thrives in cool conditions.

Fertilizing: Larkspur is a light feeder. A single application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at planting time is typically sufficient. Too much nitrogen can lead to weak stems.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the flowers on the bottom half of the spike have opened. Larkspur is also an excellent flower for drying. To dry, harvest at the same stage as for fresh bouquets and hang bunches upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks.